2017 Ford Fusion Rear Brake Replacement – Save Money
Performing a brake job on a modern sedan requires more than just a wrench; you need to know how to navigate electronic systems safely. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough for a 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement, focusing on the critical electronic parking brake (EPB) service mode to prevent costly damage.
Do you feel a slight vibration in your brake pedal or hear a high-pitched squeal when slowing down your sedan? Many owners find that the rear pads on this specific model wear down faster than the fronts due to the electronic brake distribution system. If you are ready to take control of your vehicle maintenance, you have come to the right place.
I will guide you through the entire process of a 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement, from putting the car into maintenance mode to bedding in your new pads. We will cover the specific tools you need and the safety precautions that professional technicians use every day in the shop.
By the end of this article, you will have the confidence to swap your rotors and pads while avoiding the common pitfalls that trap most DIYers. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get your Ford Fusion back to its peak stopping performance.
Essential Tools and Supplies for the Job
Before you loosen a single lug nut, you must gather the correct tools to ensure the job goes smoothly. The 2017 Fusion uses a mix of metric sizes that are standard for Ford, but having them ready will save you from mid-job hardware store runs.
You will need a reliable floor jack and a pair of sturdy jack stands to keep the vehicle secure while you work. Never rely solely on a hydraulic jack when your hands are inside the wheel well, as mechanical failure can be catastrophic.
For the hardware itself, ensure you have a 13mm socket for the caliper bolts and a 15mm socket for the caliper bracket if you plan on replacing the rotors. A 7mm hex bit (Allen socket) is also frequently required for the guide pins on certain Fusion trim levels.
- Brake Parts Cleaner: To remove the protective oil film from new rotors.
- High-Temperature Brake Grease: Essential for lubricating slide pins and the back of pads.
- C-Clamp or Brake Spreader: To compress the piston once the system is in service mode.
- Torque Wrench: To ensure your wheels and caliper bolts are tightened to factory specifications.
- Wire Brush: To clean rust and debris from the hub and bracket surfaces.
Understanding the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
The most important step in a 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement is managing the electronic parking brake. Unlike older cars with a manual cable, this system uses an electric motor to press the pads against the rotor.
If you attempt to force the caliper piston back without retracting the electronic motor, you will likely destroy the internal plastic gears. This mistake can turn a simple pad swap into a $500 repair for a new caliper assembly and electronic motor.
Thankfully, Ford built a “Service Mode” into the car’s computer that allows you to retract the motors using a specific sequence of button presses. You do not need an expensive scan tool to perform this; you just need to follow the sequence exactly as described in the next section.
How to Enter Brake Maintenance Mode
To begin your 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement, you must first put the EPB into maintenance mode. Start by sitting in the driver’s seat with all doors closed and the ignition in the “OFF” position.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start the engine).
- Press and hold the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor.
- Push and hold the Electronic Parking Brake switch down (in the release position).
- Turn the ignition OFF and then back to ON within five seconds, while still holding the pedal and switch.
- Wait for the instrument cluster to display “Brake Maintenance Mode.”
Once you see this message, you will hear the electric motors in the rear calipers humming for a few seconds as they retract. You can now safely turn the ignition off and begin the mechanical portion of the brake service without fear of damaging the electronics.
Step-by-Step 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement
Now that the electronics are prepared, we can move on to the mechanical replacement. Park the car on a flat, level surface and loosen the rear lug nuts before jacking the car up.
Step 1: Lifting and Securing the Vehicle
Place your jack under the rear lift points and raise the car high enough to fit your jack stands. Lower the car onto the stands and give it a firm shake to ensure it is stable before removing the wheels entirely.
Remove the lug nuts and pull the wheel off, placing it under the frame of the car as an extra safety measure. You now have a clear view of the caliper, rotor, and the EPB motor attached to the back of the assembly.
Step 2: Removing the Caliper
Locate the two 13mm bolts on the back of the caliper that hold it to the mounting bracket. Carefully loosen these bolts and set them aside in a clean tray so they do not collect dirt or grit.
Slide the caliper off the rotor; if it is stuck, you can use a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry it loose. Use a bungee cord or a piece of wire to hang the caliper from the coil spring so there is no tension on the rubber brake hose.
Step 3: Swapping the Pads and Rotors
Pull the old brake pads out of the bracket and take note of any uneven wear, which could indicate a stuck slide pin. If you are replacing the rotors, remove the 15mm bracket bolts and slide the rotor off the hub.
Clean the hub surface with a wire brush to remove any rust buildup, as even a small amount of debris can cause the new rotor to sit unevenly. Slide the new rotor into place and secure it with one lug nut to keep it flush while you work.
Step 4: Compressing the Piston
Since the car is in maintenance mode, the piston should compress easily with a standard C-clamp or brake spreader tool. Slowly apply pressure until the piston is flush with the caliper housing, ensuring the rubber boot does not get pinched.
Apply a thin layer of brake lubricant to the contact points on the back of the new pads and the metal “ears” where they sit in the bracket. Avoid getting any grease on the friction surface of the pads or the face of the rotor.
Step 5: Reassembly and Torque
Install the new pads into the bracket and slide the caliper back over them. Reinstall the 13mm caliper bolts and tighten them to approximately 20-25 lb-ft of torque.
Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to 100 lb-ft. Repeat this entire process on the other side of the vehicle to ensure your 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement is balanced and even.
Exiting Maintenance Mode
Once the mechanical work is finished on both sides, you must take the car out of maintenance mode to re-engage the parking brake. This process is nearly the reverse of the entry sequence.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off).
- Press and hold the accelerator pedal to the floor.
- Pull and hold the Electronic Parking Brake switch up (in the apply position).
- Turn the ignition OFF and then back to ON within five seconds.
- The system will reset, and the “Maintenance Mode” message will disappear.
You will hear the motors cycle as they calibrate to the thickness of the new pads. It is vital to pump the brake pedal several times before shifting the car into gear to ensure the pads are seated against the rotors.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
One of the biggest mistakes during a 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement is forgetting to clean the new rotors. Manufacturers coat them in a shipping oil to prevent rust, but this oil will contaminate your new pads if not removed with brake cleaner.
Another issue is failing to grease the slide pins. If these pins are dry or seized, your new brakes will wear unevenly and may cause the car to pull to one side during stopping. Always pull the pins, wipe them clean, and apply fresh silicone-based grease.
Finally, never open the bleeder screw unless you intend to bleed the entire system. While some old-school mechanics suggest opening it when compressing the piston, modern ABS modules can be sensitive to air ingestion, so keep the system closed if possible.
Expert Tips for Longevity and Performance
To get the most out of your new brakes, I recommend performing a bedding-in procedure. This involves making several controlled stops from 35 mph down to 5 mph to transfer a thin layer of pad material onto the rotor surface.
If you live in a “rust belt” state, consider using coated rotors. These have a special zinc or geometric coating on the non-friction surfaces that prevents the “hat” of the rotor from turning into a rusted mess after just one winter.
Check your brake fluid color while you are under the hood. If the fluid looks like dark tea or coffee, it is saturated with moisture and should be flushed. Fresh fluid ensures a firm pedal and protects the internal seals of your master cylinder and calipers.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Ford Fusion Rear Brake Replacement
Can I replace my rear brakes without putting the car in maintenance mode?
No, you should not attempt this. Without maintenance mode, the electronic motor prevents the piston from retracting, and forcing it will break the internal mechanism, leading to an expensive replacement of the entire caliper.
Why do the rear brakes on the Ford Fusion wear out so fast?
The Fusion uses a rear-bias braking strategy under light braking conditions to reduce “nose dive” and improve ride comfort. This results in the rear pads doing more work during everyday commuting than the front pads.
Do I need a special tool to wind back the rear pistons?
On the 2017 model with the EPB, you do not need a wind-back tool if you use the maintenance mode. Once in mode, the piston can be pushed straight back with a simple clamp, unlike older models that required a rotating tool.
What is the torque spec for the rear lug nuts?
The factory specification for the lug nuts on a 2017 Ford Fusion is 100 lb-ft (135 Nm). Always use a calibrated torque wrench and tighten in a cross-pattern to prevent rotor warping.
Final Thoughts on Your DIY Brake Project
Completing your 2017 ford fusion rear brake replacement is a rewarding way to maintain your vehicle while saving hundreds of dollars in labor costs. By following the electronic service mode steps and using the right tools, you ensure your car remains safe and reliable.
Remember that brakes are the most critical safety system on your vehicle. If at any point you feel unsure about a step or notice a fluid leak that you cannot identify, do not hesitate to consult a certified technician or a local shop for guidance.
Take your time, double-check your torque settings, and enjoy the smooth, quiet stopping power of your new brakes. Stay safe and keep your Ford Fusion running at its best!
- Smallest Chevrolet Car – Maximizing Utility And Efficiency - September 28, 2026
- Chevrolet Small Car Models – A Practical Owner’S Guide To Maintenance - September 28, 2026
- Chevrolet Hhr Miles Per Gallon – Real-World Efficiency And Maintenance - September 28, 2026