A Guide to the 2021-2025 Ford Escape Disc Brake Hardware Kit
Everything you need to know about replacing the clips, pins, and boots that are critical for quiet and smooth braking.
- A "moan" from the rear brakes when reversing is a known issue (TSB 25-2051) that requires an updated hardware and pad kit.
- Always replace the disc brake hardware kit when installing new brake pads to ensure quiet operation and even wear.
- The Electronic Parking Brake must be put into "Service Mode" before starting work on the rear brakes.
- For this part, quality aftermarket brands like Carlson, Dorman, and Dynamic Friction offer excellent value for daily driving.
Is Your Escape Making Noise? It Might Be Time for New Brake Hardware
If your 2021-2025 Ford Escape is making strange noises when you brake, the problem might not be the brake pads themselves. The small metal clips and pins that hold them in place can wear out, corrode, or lose tension. When this happens, you can get annoying squeals, rattles, or uneven brake pad wear. 🎬 Learn more about what causes Ford Escape brakes to squeal. Replacing the disc brake hardware kit is a crucial step in any complete brake job.
Known Issue: Rear Brake "Moan" or "Groan" When Reversing
Many owners of 2020-2025 Ford Escapes have reported a loud "moan" or "groan" noise from the rear brakes, especially when backing up in cold or humid weather. Ford has acknowledged this issue and released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 25-2051. 🎬 Watch this video to hear the rear brake moaning noise. The official fix involves installing an updated rear brake pad kit and, in some cases, a reinforced rear caliper bushing and pin kit (Part No. DG9Z-2C150-B). If you experience this specific noise, it's a strong sign that your rear brake hardware needs attention.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
When you're doing a brake job, it's easy to focus only on the pads and rotors. However, reusing old, rusty, or heat-fatigued hardware can lead to problems down the road. For a few extra dollars, a new hardware kit is cheap insurance for a quiet, long-lasting brake job.
- Standard Replacement (Good): Brands like Dorman and Carlson offer reliable, OE-quality hardware kits. They provide all the necessary clips and boots to restore your brake system's proper function. These are excellent, budget-friendly choices for daily driving.
- Premium Aftermarket (Better): A brand like Dynamic Friction often focuses on quality materials and coatings. While the core function is the same, premium kits may offer better corrosion resistance, which is a plus in areas that use road salt during winter.
Pro Tip: Always replace your disc brake hardware kit whenever you replace your brake pads. The clips are single-use as they lose their spring tension once removed, and the rubber boots can become brittle, allowing dirt and water to seize the caliper pins.
Cost of Replacing a Disc Brake Hardware Kit on a 2021-2025 Ford Escape
| Part Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $13.85 - $21.37 |
| New OEM (Ford/Motorcraft) Hardware Kit | $30 - $50 |
| Shop Labor (Hardware installed during a brake job) | $108 - $158 |
Note: Labor costs reflect the time for a standard brake pad replacement, as hardware is typically installed at the same time. Prices are estimates and can vary by location and supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need special tools to replace the brake hardware on my Escape?
Yes, besides standard tools, you will likely need a 7mm Allen socket for the caliper guide pins and a 15mm socket for the caliper bracket bolts. 🎬 See a step-by-step tutorial on replacing Ford Escape front brakes. Most importantly, because the 2021-2025 Escape has an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), you must put the system into "Service Mode" before starting work on the rear brakes. This retracts the caliper piston electronically. This procedure can be found in your owner's manual or activated with a capable automotive scan tool.
What is the TSB for the rear brake noise?
The relevant technical service bulletin is TSB 25-2051. It addresses a moaning noise from the rear brakes when reversing. The fix requires a new brake pad kit with updated clips and sometimes a reinforced caliper bushing kit (Ford Part No. DG9Z-2C150-B). If your vehicle exhibits this symptom, mention the TSB to your mechanic.
Was there a recall for the brakes on these Escapes?
There was a recall (NHTSA 21V922) for some 2020-2022 Escape models due to incorrectly manufactured rear brake pads. The official remedy from Ford was to replace the *front* brake pads with a different material to ensure the vehicle met federal stopping distance standards. While this doesn't directly involve the hardware kit on all 2021-2025 models, it highlights the specific tuning of the brake system. You can check if your specific vehicle is affected by entering your VIN on the NHTSA website.
Should I replace my brake rotors when I replace the hardware?
It's highly recommended. The hardware's job is to ensure the pads contact the rotor correctly. If the rotor surface is warped, grooved, or worn too thin, you will still experience issues like vibrations or noise. Installing new pads and hardware on a fresh, flat rotor surface ensures the best performance and longevity.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DG9Z-2C150-B
Kit typically includes anti-rattle clips, caliper guide pins, and guide pin boots for one axle (two wheels).
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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.
- Ford Escape:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Escape Making Noise? It Might Be Time for New Brake Hardware
- Known Issue: Rear Brake "Moan" or "Groan" When Reversing
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
- Cost of Replacing a Disc Brake Hardware Kit on a 2021-2025 Ford Escape
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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