A Guide to the 2013-2017 Ford Explorer Disc Brake Hardware Kit
Stop brake noise and fix uneven wear by replacing this small but critical part during your next brake job.
- Always replace brake hardware when changing pads to prevent noise and uneven wear.
- Corroded or worn hardware is a common cause of brake noise and seized calipers on the Explorer.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Raybestos, Centric, and Dorman offer reliable performance, often at a better price than OEM.
- Ensure you purchase the correct kit for the front or rear axle, as they are not interchangeable.
Is It Time to Replace Your Brake Hardware?
For 2013-2017 Ford Explorer models, the brake system is generally reliable, but the hardware is a wear item. These small metal clips and rubber parts are exposed to intense heat, road salt, and moisture. Over time, the clips lose their tension, and the rubber boots can crack or tear. This allows brake dust and rust to build up, preventing the brake pads and caliper from moving freely. Many owners and mechanics report that issues like seized calipers or brake drag can be traced back to neglected hardware. Replacing the hardware is a cheap and easy way to avoid bigger problems.
Symptoms of Failing Brake Hardware
- Squealing or rattling noises: Worn clips can allow brake pads to vibrate, creating noise, especially at low speeds.
- Uneven brake pad wear: If the caliper can't slide properly due to a seized guide pin, the inner or outer brake pad will wear down much faster than the other.
- Brake drag: Corroded hardware can prevent the pads from pulling away from the rotor, causing constant friction, heat, and poor fuel economy.
- Spongy or pulsating brake pedal: While other issues can cause this, binding hardware can contribute to poor brake feel.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
When you're doing a brake job, it's always a good idea to replace the hardware. It's a low-cost part that ensures your new pads and rotors work their best. For the 2013-2017 Explorer, you have several good aftermarket options. OEM hardware from Ford/Motorcraft is always a safe bet for fitment, but quality aftermarket kits can offer similar performance, sometimes with features like better coatings for rust prevention.
Brand Tiers for Your Explorer
Here’s a breakdown of the available brands based on general reputation and owner feedback.
- Premium Tier (High-Quality): Raybestos and Centric are well-regarded brands that often provide hardware with their higher-end brake pad kits. Their hardware is known for good fitment and durability, often featuring corrosion-resistant coatings. Dynamic Friction is another brand gaining a reputation for quality components.
- Standard Tier (Good Value): Carlson and Dorman are solid, widely available options that meet or exceed OEM specifications. They offer a good balance of quality and price for daily driving and are a reliable choice for most owners.
Pro Tip: Many premium brake pad sets from brands like Raybestos and Centric include a new hardware kit in the box. Check the product details before buying a separate hardware kit to avoid purchasing parts you don't need.
| Brand Tier | Price Range (Per Axle) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Dorman, Carlson) | $7 - $16 | Good quality for the price, widely available. |
| Premium (Raybestos, Centric, Dynamic Friction) | $15 - $29 | Often includes better materials and coatings for longevity. |
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
While there are no specific recalls for the disc brake hardware itself on the 2013-2017 Explorer, several brake-related issues have been noted. Some owners have reported problems with calipers seizing, which can be caused by old, unlubricated hardware. Ford did issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for some 2017 models concerning potential brake drag, 🎬 See how a sticking caliper causes rear brake noise. highlighting the importance of all brake components functioning correctly. There are also several recalls related to suspension and other components that can affect braking stability, but none directly target the hardware clips or boots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to replace the hardware with every brake job?
Yes, it's highly recommended. The clips are heat-cycled and lose tension, and the rubber boots degrade. For a small cost, you ensure your new pads and rotors perform correctly and last longer. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to replacing front brakes and hardware. Reusing old hardware is a common cause of noise and premature wear.
What's the difference between front and rear hardware kits?
Front and rear brake systems on your Explorer are different sizes and designs. The hardware is not interchangeable. Always ensure you are buying the correct kit for the axle you are working on (front or rear).
🎬 Watch: How to replace rear brakes and hardware.Should I use OEM or aftermarket hardware?
For this part, high-quality aftermarket brands like Raybestos, Centric, or even Dorman offer excellent quality that is often equivalent to OEM. Some aftermarket kits may even have superior coatings. OEM is a guaranteed fit, but you can get great results with aftermarket parts for a lower price.
What else should I do when replacing the hardware?
When you replace the hardware, you should also clean the caliper bracket thoroughly with a wire brush to remove all rust and debris where the clips sit. Also, clean and lubricate the caliper guide pins with a proper silicone-based brake lubricant before installing the new boots. This ensures the caliper can move freely.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8A8Z-2386-A DG1Z-2C150-B BKCOE-24
Kit typically includes abutment clips (anti-rattle clips), caliper guide pin boots, and sometimes guide pins. Materials vary from standard steel to coated stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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