Which brake pads does Ford use?
Ford primarily uses Motorcraft brake pads as the OEM choice for most of its vehicles, with variations for performance and specialty models. In short, Motorcraft is Ford’s standard brake pad brand, though some high-performance applications may involve different braking system partners.
Ford’s standard OEM brake pads
The most common arrangement across Ford’s broad lineup is Motorcraft-branded brake pads. These pads are designed to work with Ford’s factory calipers and rotors and are sold through Ford’s official parts network. In practice, this means many owners will replace pads with Motorcraft, the brand Ford officially markets for maintenance and replacement.
- Motorcraft brake pads are the official OEM option for most Ford models.
- The friction material and pad configuration vary by model and trim, so there are ceramic and semi-metallic options depending on the vehicle.
- Pads are typically sourced to match Ford’s braking system specifications, ensuring compatibility with the factory calipers and rotors.
Below are the core points about Ford’s standard brake pads in ordinary passenger and light-duty vehicles.
Understanding the above helps explain why a Ford maintenance or parts catalog will often list Motorcraft brake pads as the default replacement choice for many vehicles.
Exceptions and high-performance applications
Not every Ford model uses Motorcraft pads in every circumstance. Some high-performance and specialty models feature braking systems supplied by other manufacturers, and the accompanying pads may come from those partners rather than Motorcraft. In these cases, the brakes (calipers, rotors, and pads) are part of a coordinated performance package designed for higher stopping power and heat management.
Regional and model-specific differences
Brake systems can differ by region due to regulatory, climate, and dealership practices. While Motorcraft remains the standard in many markets, certain regions may offer or require different OEM configurations for specific models or markets. Always verify with local Ford dealerships or the official FordParts catalog for your exact vehicle.
How to verify the correct brake pads for your Ford
To ensure you get the proper pads for your exact vehicle, follow these steps. They help you confirm whether Motorcraft pads are appropriate or if a different OEM or performance option is required.
- Check your vehicle’s VIN and model year in the FordParts or Motorcraft parts catalog to pull the exact brake pad part number.
- Consult your owner’s manual or a dealership Parts Dept for the recommended pad specification (ceramic vs. semi-metallic, wear rating, and compatibility).
- Use an authorized Ford dealer or Ford Parts retailer to confirm compatibility before purchasing or installing pads.
- Consider your driving needs (daily commuting vs. performance driving) when choosing between standard Motorcraft pads and any high-performance alternatives offered for your model.
- If you’re upgrading or replacing with aftermarket pads, ensure the chosen pads are compatible with your calipers and rotors and follow the manufacturer’s break-in procedures.
Follow these steps to identify the correct parts for your car.
In all cases, matching the pad material and shape to the factory specification is important for consistent braking performance and rotor wear.
Summary
For most Ford owners, the factory brake pads are Motorcraft-branded and sized to Ford’s specifications. High-performance and specialty models may use different braking system partnerships, which can involve other brands for calipers or pads. When in doubt, the safest approach is to consult Ford’s official parts catalog or a dealership to confirm the correct pad part number for your exact vehicle and trim.
Summary: Motorcraft is Ford’s default OEM brake pad for the majority of models, with exceptions on performance-oriented or region-specific configurations. Always verify with the official parts channel to ensure the correct fit and friction material for your car.
Does Ford use ceramic brake pads?
Ford brake pads are designed to meet the specific requirements of Ford vehicles. They are engineered to provide reliable braking performance under a variety of conditions. Ford uses a combination of materials in its brake pads, including semi - metallic and ceramic compounds.
Who makes Ford's brakes?
Motorcraft
Motorcraft manufactures various parts for several different car companies, including Ford. In fact, Motorcraft is the official parts brand of Ford and has been since its inception in the 1950s.
What brand brake pads does Ford use?
Ford brake pads are made by Motorcraft, the company's official parts brand, which develops them to meet Ford's specifications. While Motorcraft makes the official replacement parts, Ford also uses other suppliers, such as Ferodo, for original equipment (OE) brake pads on some of its vehicles from the factory.
- Motorcraft: This is the official parts brand for Ford, meaning the brake pads are designed and manufactured to meet Ford's specifications for the right fit and performance.
- Ferodo: For certain factory-fitted applications, such as the Ford Fiesta and Galaxy, Ferodo is the original equipment supplier. Some enthusiasts have also noted that specific high-performance models like the Mustang GT350 may use pads from Ferodo as the OE part.
- Other OEM suppliers: It is common for automakers to have multiple suppliers for various parts, so other companies may also supply parts for Ford vehicles, even if not under the Motorcraft brand.
Does Ford use Brembo brakes?
That same know-how has been meticulously applied in the production of OEM equipment for the world's most prestigious vehicles, and is now available for your Ford through a wide range of high-value options. Brembo supplies brake pads tailored for every Ford model.
