my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) shakes when braking, is it safe to drive?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and parts needed.
• Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and secure it with wheel chocks.
• Disconnect the battery for safety.

2. Remove Wheel and Brake Components

• Tools Required: Lug wrench, jack, jack stands, impact wrench (if available).

1. Loosen lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is on the ground.
2. Raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Remove the front wheels by fully loosening and removing the lug nuts.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors

• Tools Required: Brake rotor puller (if necessary), torque wrench.

1. Remove caliper bolts and lift off the brake caliper (support it with a bungee cord to avoid strain on the brake line).
2. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
3. Remove the rotor (if it does not come off easily, use a rotor puller).
4. Inspect the rotor for warping using a dial gauge; replace if warping exceeds specifications.
5. Install new rotors, ensuring proper alignment and securing with new rotor bolts if necessary.

4. Replace Brake Pads

1. Install new brake pads into the caliper bracket.
2. Reinstall the brake caliper over the new pads ensuring it fits snugly.
3. Tighten caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually 20-25 ft-lbs).

5. Reassemble and Test

1. Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
3. Torque the lug nuts to the appropriate specifications (typically 100-150 ft-lbs).
4. Reconnect the battery.