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Ford Mustang GT 1996-2014: How to Replace Brake Line

The brake lines in the Ford Mustang can wear out over time, which can leak brake fluid and introduce air into the brake system. Here's how to replace it and avoid any danger.

By Bassem Girgis - September 23, 2015

This article applies to the Ford Mustang GT (1996-2014).

The brake lines in the Ford Mustang are made out of rubber. Not only are these lines constantly in contact with corrosive brake fluid, they are also exposed to a great deal of heat and different weather conditions. If they crack and wear, they can start leaking fluid and introduce air into the brake system, which can cause a change in the brake pedal feel and the brakes performance. Replacing them isn't difficult; however, you have to bleed the brake system when you're done to get rid of any air. Read on to learn how you can replace your brake line.

Materials Needed

  • Wrench set
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Tire iron
  • Brake line clamp
  • Empty bottle
  • A hose
  • New brake line

Step 1 – Raise the car

Loosen the lug nuts on the side you will be replacing the brake line. Raise the car and secure it with jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and remove the wheel.

Figure 1. Jacking points.

Step 2 – Clamp and remove brake line

Use a brake line clamp to clamp the brake line and avoid extra mess. Clamp it as close as you can to the caliper, and then follow the line to the other end of it. Remove the line and be ready for some spillage. You will need to remove the bolts holding the brake line in.

  • Figure 2. Brake line clamp tool.
  • Figure 3. Brake line going into caliper.
  • Figure 4. Consider upgrading to steel line.

Step 3 – Bleed your brakes

You have to bleed your brake system to get rid of any air that was introduced to your system. The brake system is a hydraulic system and any air would negatively affect it.

Connect a hose to the brake caliper's bleeder valve. Connect the hose on the other side to an empty bottle. Without specialty tools, bleeding the brakes is a two-man job. With a friend in the car, locate the bleed valve on the back of the caliper. Attach a hose to the bleeder nipple, leading into a catch can. Have your friend pump the peddle five times, and then hold the pedal down. At this point, with the pedal held down, crack open the bleeder valve to let the old brake fluid evacuate the caliper. After two to three seconds, close the valve and tell your friend to get off the brake pedal. Repeat this process of pumping the pedal and bleeding the caliper until fresh fluid, free of bubbles, comes out of the caliper.

Put the wheel back on, lower the car, and carefully test drive your Mustang.

Figure 5. Bleed your brakes.

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