Car Care Tips

Top 5 2017 Ford Escape Brake Pads for Superior Performance

Need the best brake pads for your 2017 Ford Escape? This guide highlights the top options, estimated replacement costs, and essential maintenance tips to help you make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2017 Ford Escape supports three main types of brake pads: OEM Aftermarket, Ceramic, and High Friction Formulation—each designed for different driving needs.
  • Replacing brake pads typically costs between $150 to $300 per axle. DIY installations can reduce costs but require proper tools and mechanical know-how.
  • Regular brake inspections and maintenance are critical for safety and performance, extending the lifespan of your pads and preventing costly damage.

Types of Brake Pads for the 2017 Ford Escape

Understanding the brake pad options available for your 2017 Ford Escape is essential for maintaining optimal braking performance. Each type delivers specific benefits tailored to different driving preferences:

OEM Aftermarket Brake Pads

Designed to meet factory specifications, OEM aftermarket pads offer a reliable, cost-effective solution. They provide a seamless fit and consistent braking performance, making them a popular choice for drivers seeking trusted OEM-level quality at a lower price point.

Ceramic Brake Pads

Ceramic brake pads are ideal for daily driving. Known for their quiet operation and low dust production, they help keep your wheels cleaner while delivering long-lasting durability. Their robust construction reduces wear and minimizes maintenance, making them a great option for those prioritizing comfort and convenience.

High Friction Formulation Brake Pads

For drivers who prioritize stronger stopping power, especially during spirited driving or towing, high friction brake pads offer enhanced braking performance. These pads provide greater friction, helping to shorten stopping distances and improve confidence under demanding conditions. Formulation pads provide an upgraded level of friction that significantly improves the overall effectiveness of your vehicle’s braking system.

OEM Aftermarket

Aftermarket OEM brake pads for 2017 Ford Escape offer a near-identical match to the original factory brakes. The R1 OPTIMUM OEp Series Brake Pads, in particular, are engineered using materials derived from original equipment formulations, delivering OEM-level performance at a more affordable price. These pads are tailored to provide precise friction levels for your specific vehicle, enhancing both safety and reliability.

A key advantage of these aftermarket OEM pads is their asbestos-free composition, making them safer for drivers and more environmentally friendly. Additionally, their design allows for easy installation, saving both time and effort during replacement.

By choosing brake pads specifically designed for your 2017 Ford Escape, you help preserve the authentic braking experience intended by the manufacturer. These precision-fit pads ensure consistent stopping power, providing the confidence and safety needed across all driving conditions—whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.

Ceramic Brake Pads

Ceramic brake pads for 2017 Ford Escape provide quieter operation and minimal brake dust production. Made from advanced ceramic compounds compressed under high pressure, these pads deliver smooth, reliable braking while helping keep your wheels cleaner—resulting in lower maintenance needs.

What sets ceramic brake pads apart is their durability and long service life. Designed for extended use, they maintain consistent performance over time, reducing the frequency of replacements and overall maintenance costs. Built to original equipment specifications, they are easy to install and require no modifications.

Additionally, these pads typically contain less copper than other types, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Their blend of strong stopping power, quiet performance, and extended wear life makes ceramic brake pads a compelling choice for 2017 Ford Escape owners seeking reliable, low-maintenance braking performance.

High Friction Formulation

Brake pads with a high friction formulation for 2017 Ford Escape are ideal for drivers who demand exceptional stopping power. Engineered with advanced materials that generate elevated friction levels, these pads ensure smooth, responsive braking even at higher temperatures—a critical advantage during performance driving, towing, or heavy-load conditions.

The specialized compound used in these brake pads provides consistent performance across a wide range of driving environments. Free from asbestos, they also promote safer handling and are more environmentally friendly. This combination of safety, strength, and reliability makes high friction brake pads a smart upgrade for enhancing your Escape’s braking system.

By choosing high friction brake pads, 2017 Ford Escape owners benefit from greater control, shorter stopping distances, and enhanced braking precision. Whether navigating city traffic or tackling rugged terrain, these pads offer the confidence and dependability needed for demanding driving conditions.

Cost of Replacing Brake Pads on a 2017 Ford Escape

Replacing the brake pads on your 2017 Ford Escape involves both parts and labor, with total costs typically ranging from $150 to $300 per axle. The exact price depends on the type of brake pads selected and the service provider’s labor rates.

Brake pad prices vary significantly:

  • Premium options: $150 to $250
  • Standard alternatives: $75 to $120
  • DIY replacement: $50 to $100 per pad (plus labor if needed)
  • Labor costs: Typically $80 to $100 per axle

While DIY replacements can reduce upfront costs, it’s important to weigh the risks and responsibilities involved. Professional services usually include a warranty and ensure proper installation, whereas improper DIY jobs may void your vehicle’s warranty or lead to more costly repairs in the future.


DIY vs. Professional Installation

Deciding between DIY or professional installation depends on your mechanical skills and access to the necessary tools. For a DIY brake pad replacement, you’ll need:

  • Lug wrench
  • Socket wrenches
  • Brake bleeder kit
  • C-clamp or brake caliper tool

DIY brake replacement generally takes 1 to 3 hours per wheel, depending on your experience and vehicle familiarity. Be especially cautious with hybrid or electric vehicles, as they may require specialized knowledge due to regenerative braking systems.

While DIY can be cost-effective, professional installation ensures the job is done correctly and safely. It also typically includes a warranty and peace of mind that your brakes were installed by an experienced technician. If you’re not confident in your mechanical skills, professional service is the safer choice.

Importance of Regular Brake Maintenance

Routine brake maintenance is crucial for both safety and performance. Regular inspections help detect early signs of wear, leaks, or malfunction, allowing you to address issues before they escalate.

Properly maintained brakes ensure your vehicle can stop quickly in emergencies. Brake pad life on a 2017 Ford Escape typically ranges from 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving habits. Routine maintenance can extend pad life and prevent expensive repairs.

Some vehicles are equipped with wear indicators, but don’t rely solely on those. Regular manual inspections of your pads, rotors, and calipers ensure you stay ahead of potential problems and maintain peak braking performance.

How to Choose the Right Brake Pads

When selecting brake pads for your 2017 Ford Escape, consider the following factors:

  • Driving habits: Frequent braking in urban settings requires pads with excellent stopping power. Highway drivers may prioritize quiet and low-maintenance options.
  • Material: Choose between ceramic, OEM aftermarket, or high-friction formulations, based on your performance expectations and environment.
  • Fitment: Always choose pads that match your vehicle’s OEM specifications to ensure proper fit and safe operation.

Regardless of which type you choose, quality and proper installation are critical to ensure long-term performance and reliability.

Summary

Choosing the right brake pads for your 2017 Ford Escape is essential for maintaining safety, performance, and driving comfort.

  • OEM Aftermarket pads offer reliable, cost-effective performance.
  • Ceramic pads provide quiet operation and low dust, ideal for daily driving.
  • High Friction Formulation pads enhance stopping power for demanding driving conditions.

Whether you opt for DIY installation or professional service, the key is to make informed decisions and commit to regular maintenance. Selecting the right brake pads ensures you can drive with confidence and peace of mind.


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of brake pads available for the 2017 Ford Escape?

The 2017 Ford Escape supports several types of brake pads, including:

  • OEM aftermarket
  • Ceramic
  • High friction formulation

Each offers unique performance characteristics suited to different driving styles.


How much does it cost to replace brake pads on a 2017 Ford Escape?

Professional replacement typically costs between $150 and $300 per axle. DIY replacements range from $50 to $100 per pad, not including labor if assistance is needed.


What are the benefits of ceramic brake pads?

Ceramic brake pads provide:

  • Low dust production
  • Quiet operation
  • Long-lasting durability

They offer a cleaner, smoother, and more comfortable driving experience while requiring less maintenance.


Is it better to replace brake pads myself or have a professional do it?

While DIY can save money, professional installation is often the safer option. It ensures proper fitment and includes a warranty, giving you peace of mind.


Why is regular brake maintenance important?

Routine maintenance:

  • Prevents brake failure
  • Extends pad and rotor life
  • Improves vehicle safety and performance

Staying proactive with brake care keeps your Escape running smoothly and safely.