Brake Services for Your 1986 Ford Thunderbird

It’s best to get a brake check before your Ford Thunderbird shows signs of brake troubles. That's one reason we offer complimentary brake checks so that we can help you stay one step ahead of serious problems. You can request a free brake inspection at any time or during another service, like an oil change. If life has gotten in the way of everyday car care, keep the following brake information in mind.

Signs of brake problems include weird noises, vibration or pulsation in the pedal or steering wheel, a burning smell near your tires, a dashboard brake light that’s powered on, or the feeling that something is "off." You know your Ford Thunderbird best. Turn to our technicians to help keep your brakes at peak performance! In general, manufacturers like Ford advise that at a minimum, front and rear brakes are removed and serviced at least once every 12 months or 12,000 miles. That includes inspecting the parking brake. Brake service and/or repair should be performed as necessary. Not sure if something’s wrong? Stop by your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care for a quick brake inspection. Most of our locations are open seven days a week and in the evening for free brake checks. Our expert technicians are happy to examine your 1986 Ford Thunderbird brakes, brake pads, and other braking components. Proper brake maintenance is key to preventing problems in the first place.

When should you change the brake pads on your 1986 Ford Thunderbird? It depends largely on your driving style and terrain. The majority of brake pads last between 30,000 and 40,000 miles. If you drive mostly on the highway and tend to brake smoothly (as opposed to slamming on the brakes), your brake pads may last longer. Hauling heavy loads and riding your brakes can shorten brake pad lifespan. Your brake pad replacement interval also depends on what kind of brake pads you have on your Thunderbird right now. Are you still driving with the same pads as when you bought the car? Brake pads made of certain materials tend to outlast others. Thankfully, when you get Ford Thunderbird brake pad replacement at Firestone Complete Auto Care, you also get a limited Lifetime Parts Warranty. Brake checks and brake pad replacements are some of our most popular services. For your Thunderbird, we’ll use brake components that meet or exceed Ford’s specs.

You might have a strong and reliable engine in your Ford  Thunderbird. One that can outlast the 170,000-mile mark. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. If you’re experiencing squeaky brakes or a loss of braking power, don’t wait! Safe driving is difficult when your brakes are anything but their best. What's more, waiting for things to figure themselves out can result in more damage to your brakes and your wallet. For instance, rotors may start to warp when you drive on worn brake pads, shortening the life of healthy parts due to the metal on metal grinding that occurs. We can help you steer clear of further brake damage. Visit Firestone Complete Auto Care for the right brake repair for your 1986 Ford Thunderbird. We offer a variety of brake services like brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing, brake fluid exchange/bleeding, and brake caliper and wheel cylinder service. Schedule an appointment today for Ford Thunderbird brake service and repair.