2003 Ford Ranger: brake failure

Filed Dec 19, 2011 · Brakes · GA

Brake rotors sold by advance auto parts as an "exact fit" for this vehicle were installed without any problems and all associated components for a brake repair (pads, calipers, bearings, seals, ABS rings) were also installed and seemed to fit perfectly. After assembly I noticed that the brake pads were only partially bearing on the brake rotor, with the pads overlapping the edge of the rotors. I did not notice this condition until both new front rotors had been replaced and all components except the tires/wheels had been replaced. Upon further research, the rotors sold as an "exact fit" (selected for me by the counter man at my local advance auto parts store) were approximately 1 inch smaller in diameter as the original equipment rotors. I contacted advance customer service to inform them of this problem and they denied any responsibility for installation of improper parts. Several reviews posted on the store's website indicate that other people have installed these rotors and are driving around with them despite the fact they are not the proper rotors for this 4 wheel antilock brake vehicle (they do fit rangers with rear wheel antilock brakes). This is a murphy's law situation in which a consumer can install these parts and drive around with them, unaware of the potential for brake failure. The final installation looks normal and I would not have noticed unless I had made a close inspection and found that the brake pads were not in full contact with the rotor surface because of the smaller than specification diameter. This is a serious safety hazard because the advance auto parts website and store computer system list them as an exact fit for the vehicle when, in fact, they are not. They can be installed and driven without the installer realizing that they are the wrong size. This requires an immediate notice and recall and advance should be sanctioned.

Filed May 15, 2011 · Brakes · 26,000 miles · CT

2003 ford ranger steel brake line rotted and failed. 26,000 miles well maintained vehicle. Cause brake failure. Fortunately no accident incident. Steel line rotted at fitting over rear axle where it attaches to flex line to the axle housing. Other rust and corrosion issues plague this vehicle.

Filed Mar 27, 2011 · Brakes · 98,000 miles · CA

This problem has appeared all of a sudden without warning. Brakes fade at low speeds. The pedal sinks to the floorboard. This condition occurs randomly. I have topped off the brake fluid reservoir. This has not changed the situation. I've reviewed the internet for potential remedies and have discovered many others with the same or similar problem.

Filed Jun 19, 2005 · Brakes · 28,000 miles · AL

(1) I was in heavy stop and go traffic, keeping with the flow of the traffic. At one point I had to slam on my brakes. The truck felt like it didn't want to stop. The brakes felt "greasy" and I had to avoid rear ending the car in front of me. (2) brake failure due to overheating? Rotors were warped after that. Truck shuddered when applying the brake. (3) a ford dealer turned the rotors at 25,632 miles. At around 28,000 the shuddering has returned during braking. Dealership says it will not fix the problem again under warranty.

Filed Jan 27, 2005 · Acceleration, Brakes · NC

The vehicle has been taken to the dealer on three separate occasions for brake failure and accelerator problems. *nm

Filed May 14, 2003 · Brakes, Visibility · TX

The windshield wipers failed and when the brakes were applied, the vehicle failed to stop properly and acted as if the brakes were manual, the brakes had to be pumped before the truck stopped. The vehicle was in the shop previously because the emergency brake failed to release. *jb

Filed May 13, 2003 · Acceleration · 5,000 miles · TX

The throttle cable didn't say in place. As a result the throttle became stuck and the pedal went to the floor.