Introduction
The steps in this guide are used to replace the brake pads on all Focus models in the 2005-2007 generation, except for the ST model, which has slightly different brakes. Caution should be exercised when working with brake and suspension components, and proper safety goggles should be worn at all times.
Whenever working on your car's brakes and suspension, work on one side at a time. Keep the other side completely assembled so that you can reference it at any time.
Never drive a car if the brakes on one side only are changed, because the car will "pull" to one side.
What you need
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Put the car in park (automatic) or neutral (manual).
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Apply the parking brake.
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Place chocks behind the rear wheels.
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Use a hydraulic jack on the car's frame to jack the car.
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A small notch shows where to place the jack.
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It is only necessary to jack the car until the wheel no longer touches the ground.
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The brake fluid reservoir is located towards the back of the engine compartment.
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Unscrew the cap and remove it.
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Remove the clip that holds the brake line to the strut with a pair of vise grips.
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Pull the brake line towards you and out of the bracket.
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Pull the caliper off of the rotor.
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Place the caliper on top of a box or bucket so the brake line doesn't stretch or kink.
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Use a flat head screwdriver to push the bushing through its hole in the caliper.
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Remove the bushing from the caliper.
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Insert the new bushing from the inside of the caliper.
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Use a flat head screwdriver to help feed the bushing through its hole.
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Compress the caliper piston with a C-clamp.
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Install the new inner pad by pressing it into the caliper and making sure the clips are secure.
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Place the brake line back in the bracket on the strut.
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Secure the brake line with the retaining clip. Use the blunt end of a wrench to knock it completely into place.
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Reinstall the retainer clip by first inserting the ends into the two holes in the caliper, then use pliers to stretch the ends onto the mounting bracket.
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Put the wheels back on the car and hand tighten the lug nuts.
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Lower the car and completely tighten the lug nuts
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Place the cap back on the brake fluid reservoir.
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Turn the key to the "on" position. Press the brake pedal a few times. It should go to the floor once, and then become firm.
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Fill the brake fluid reservoir with new fluid, if needed.
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Replace the brake fluid reservoir cap, close the hood, and lower the car.
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