To replace the rear disc brakes on a Ford Taurus, you must first purchase the special tool, Rear Caliper Piston Adjuster T87P-2588-A, from your local Ford dealership. Unlike many vehicles, you can't retreat the piston with needle nose pliers or a C-clamp, as you risk damaging it. Using this tool, however, you can replace the rear disc brakes in your Taurus with ease.
Drain half the brake fluid from the Ford Taurus' master cylinder reservoir using a syringe or suction gun. Pour the used brake fluid in an approved container and discard properly.
Raise the vehicle from the ground with a jack. Support the vehicle on all sides with jack stands. Use a torque wrench to loosen the lug nuts and remove the wheels.
Unscrew the brake hose bracket from the frame side rail. Take off the retaining clips connecting the cable of the parking brake to the disc brake caliper. Separate the end of the cable from the parking brake lever.
Take out the disc brake caliper locating pin from the support bracket and rotate the caliper, so it isn't blocking the rotor. Take out the disc brake pads. Inspect the rotor for wear and replace, if necessary.
Rotate the piston clockwise with the special tool, rear caliper piston adjuster, T87P-2588-A, until properly seated. Position one of the piston slots so it engages the brake pad's fastener.
Replace the disc brake pads with the new ones. Lay the caliper assembly in position on the disc brake pads. Lubricate the brake pin retainer bolt with threadlock sealer, install and torque to 24 ft-lb.
Secure the end of the cable back on the parking brake lever and put the retaining clip for the cable on the caliper assembly. Attach the bracket and brake flex hose to the side rail and torque to 11 ft-lb.
Put the wheels back on, remove the jack stands and lower the Ford Taurus to the ground. Bleed your brakes to remove any air from the lines. If your brakes feel "spongy" when you test them, then there's probably still air in the lines and the brakes require further bleeding.
