2020 Ford Explorer Brake Service Mode – The Essential Guide To Rear
To replace the rear brake pads on a modern SUV, you must first electronically retract the parking brake actuator. Using the 2020 ford explorer brake service mode allows you to move the internal caliper pistons back without damaging the sensitive electric motors. This procedure is done entirely through a specific sequence of button presses inside the cabin, requiring no special scan tools.
Changing the brakes on your vehicle used to be a simple matter of a C-clamp and some elbow grease. However, modern engineering has introduced the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), which changes the rules for DIY mechanics. If you attempt to force the rear pistons back manually, you risk a catastrophic failure of the parking brake assembly.
I promise that by the end of this guide, you will know exactly how to navigate the computer system to safely service your brakes. We will cover the specific button sequence, the tools required for the mechanical side of the job, and how to troubleshoot common issues. Let’s get your Explorer back on the road with maximum stopping power and zero dashboard warning lights.
Understanding the Need for 2020 ford explorer brake service mode
The 2020 Ford Explorer utilizes an electric motor attached to the rear brake calipers to engage the parking brake. Unlike older systems that used a cable, this system uses a ball-screw mechanism to push the piston against the pads. If you try to compress the piston without retracting this screw, you will likely strip the gears inside the motor.
Entering the 2020 ford explorer brake service mode is the only way to tell the vehicle’s computer to back off that screw. This “Maintenance Mode” fully retracts the actuator, providing the clearance needed to fit new, thicker brake pads. It is a software solution to a mechanical hurdle that every modern Ford owner should understand.
Failing to use this mode often results in a “Park Brake Fault” message on the instrument cluster. Once this error is triggered, it sometimes requires a high-end diagnostic tablet to reset. Doing it right the first time saves you a costly trip to the local dealership or an independent repair shop.
Essential Tools for a Successful Brake Job
Before you touch the brake pedal or the lug nuts, gather your gear. While the electronic side is handled by the car’s computer, the physical side still requires standard mechanic tools. Having everything laid out on your workbench or driveway prevents frustration halfway through the job.
- Floor Jack and Jack Stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Lug Wrench: A 19mm or 21mm socket is typically required for Ford factory wheels.
- Brake Caliper Tool: A standard piston compressor or a large C-clamp works once the system is in service mode.
- Wrenches and Sockets: You will need 13mm and 15mm wrenches for the caliper slide pins and bracket bolts.
- Wire Brush: Essential for cleaning rust off the hub and the pad contact points on the bracket.
Don’t forget the consumables that make a difference in long-term performance. Use a high-quality silicone-based brake grease on the slide pins to prevent sticking. A can of brake parts cleaner is also necessary to remove the protective oil coating from new rotors before installation.
Step-by-Step: 2020 ford explorer brake service mode Activation
This process is a “handshake” between you and the vehicle’s ECU. It requires precise timing, so read through the steps once before attempting them. Ensure your battery voltage is healthy; a low battery can cause the process to fail or hang midway through.
- Step 1: Switch the ignition to the “ON” position but do not start the engine. If you have a push-button start, press the button without touching the brake pedal.
- Step 2: Press and hold the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor (full throttle).
- Step 3: At the same time, press and hold the Parking Brake Switch down (the “Release” position).
- Step 4: While holding both the pedal and the switch, turn the ignition “OFF” and then back to “ON” within five seconds.
- Step 5: Wait for the instrument cluster to display “Brake Maintenance Mode” or a similar message. You may hear the rear motors whining as they retract.
Once you see the confirmation message, you can release the pedal and the switch. The yellow park brake light will likely flash, indicating the system is in a temporary state. You are now safe to begin the mechanical portion of the rear brake service without fear of damaging the actuators.
Mechanical Replacement of Pads and Rotors
With the vehicle in the 2020 ford explorer brake service mode, you can now treat the rear brakes much like traditional front brakes. Loosen the lug nuts while the tires are on the ground, then lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the wheels to expose the brake assembly.
Unbolt the caliper from the bracket using your 13mm wrench. Use a piece of bungee cord or mechanic’s wire to hang the caliper from the suspension. Never let the caliper hang by the rubber brake hose, as this can cause internal damage to the line that leads to future brake failure.
Pop the old pads out and inspect the rotor surface for grooving or heat spots. If you are replacing the rotors, remove the larger bracket bolts. Clean the hub mounting surface with a wire brush to ensure the new rotor sits perfectly flat. This prevents the “pedal pulsation” often misidentified as warped rotors.
Exiting Maintenance Mode and Calibrating the System
After the new hardware is installed and the caliper bolts are torqued to spec, you must exit the service mode. If you drive away while still in this mode, your parking brake will not function. The exit procedure is nearly identical to the entry procedure, with one crucial difference in the switch direction.
- Step 1: Turn the ignition to “ON” (engine off).
- Step 2: Press and hold the accelerator pedal to the floor.
- Step 3: Pull the Parking Brake Switch UP (the “Apply” position) and hold it.
- Step 4: Turn the ignition “OFF” and back to “ON” within five seconds.
- Step 5: The system will cycle the motors outward until they contact the new pads. The “Maintenance Mode” message will disappear.
After exiting the mode, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm. This resets the piston position and ensures the pads are seated against the rotors. Test the parking brake several times to confirm it engages and disengages smoothly before taking the vehicle for a test drive.
Safety Precautions for the DIY Mechanic
Working on a heavy SUV like the Explorer requires a safety-first mindset. Always work on a level, concrete surface. Asphalt can soften in the heat, causing jack stands to sink or tilt. If you are working on the rear, always chock the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Be mindful of the brake fluid level in the reservoir. When you compress the pistons, fluid is pushed back into the master cylinder. If you topped off your fluid recently, it might overflow and damage the paint in the engine bay. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove a small amount of fluid if the reservoir looks too full.
If at any point the electronic motors make a grinding sound or the dashboard displays a “Service Park Brake Now” message that won’t clear, stop immediately. This usually indicates a mechanical bind or a sensor calibration error. In these cases, a professional technician with a bi-directional scan tool may be needed to reset the EPB module.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 ford explorer brake service mode
Do I need a scan tool to put my Ford Explorer into brake service mode?
No, you do not need a scan tool for the 2020 model year. While professional shops use scan tools for convenience, the manual button sequence (accelerator and EPB switch) is a built-in feature designed for field service and DIYers.
What happens if I don’t use the service mode?
If you force the piston back without using the 2020 ford explorer brake service mode, you will strip the internal plastic or metal gears of the EPB motor. This results in a broken caliper that must be replaced, costing hundreds of dollars in parts alone.
Can I use this method on the front brakes?
No, the front brakes on the 2020 Ford Explorer are traditional hydraulic units without integrated electric motors. You can compress the front pistons using standard methods without engaging any electronic maintenance modes.
Why is my parking brake light flashing after the job?
A flashing light usually means the system is still in maintenance mode or the calibration process wasn’t completed. Ensure you followed the “Exit” steps correctly and that you pumped the brake pedal to seat the pads before trying to engage the parking brake.
Conclusion and Final Tips
Mastering the 2020 ford explorer brake service mode is a rite of passage for the modern DIY mechanic. It represents the shift from purely mechanical repairs to the integrated electronic systems that define today’s automotive landscape. By following these steps, you’ve protected your vehicle’s components and saved a significant amount in labor costs.
Remember to take it easy on your new brakes for the first 100 miles. Avoid aggressive stops to allow the pads and rotors to “bed in” properly. This transfer of friction material ensures a quiet, pulse-free braking experience for the life of the pads.
Brake maintenance is one of the most rewarding tasks you can perform on your Explorer. It keeps your family safe and gives you a deeper connection to the machine you drive every day. Stay safe, take your time, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done!
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