These instructions apply to the Ford Kuga Mk3 (CX482) 2020-Present.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
The Ford Kuga (Mk3, 2020–Present) runs a fully electronic parking brake on its rear axle, with a motor-driven piston in each rear caliper. To change the rear pads you must put the EPB into service (maintenance) mode so it retracts those pistons under its own power — and on this generation that step is worth getting right, because the Kuga Mk3 is fussier about it than most Fords.
What service mode is and why you need it
Each rear caliper has a geared electric motor that pushes and pulls the piston. While the system is awake it holds that piston, so it cannot be compressed by hand. Service mode commands both motors to wind fully open and then locks the EPB out so it cannot grab while you work. The message centre displays a maintenance-mode notice and keeps the amber brake lamp lit while the mode is active.
Entering EPB service mode on the Kuga Mk3
Park on level ground and chock a front wheel. First, switch Auto Hold OFF — several Kuga Mk3 owners only succeeded after disabling it. Then:
- Set the ignition to ON, engine off (don’t touch the brake pedal during start).
- Press and hold the accelerator pedal fully down.
- Still holding it, push the EPB switch down to RELEASE and hold.
- With both held, set the ignition OFF, then back ON within five seconds.
- Keep holding until Maintenance Mode shows and the EPB lamp lights, then release both.
If after a couple of careful attempts the car still won’t enter the mode, this is a known Mk3 quirk — see the FAQ for the FORScan fallback.
Never force the pistons back by hand
Never wind or force the EPB pistons back with a clamp, a wind-back tool or by hand. The piston is moved by an electric motor and gearset; pushing it backwards mechanically destroys that motor and means a new caliper. In maintenance mode the motor has already opened the piston, so the new pads should seat with light hand pressure. A piston that still feels solid is the clearest sign the car never actually entered maintenance mode — stop and resolve that first.
Exit and bed-in
With the new pads in and wheels refitted, exit with the reverse sequence: ignition ON, hold the accelerator, push the EPB switch UP to APPLY, cycle the ignition OFF then ON within five seconds, hold until the EPB fully applies and releases, then let go. Re-enable Auto Hold if you use it. Bed the pads in on the road — eight to ten firm slow-downs from about 30 mph (50 km/h) with cooling gaps — and check the parking brake holds on a slope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my Kuga Mk3 enter maintenance mode? This generation is notably temperamental. Make sure Auto Hold is OFF, you’re on level ground in P, the accelerator is held fully, the switch is pressed DOWN, and the ignition cycle is under five seconds. If it still refuses, use the FORScan route below.
Do I really need FORScan for the Kuga Mk3? Often, yes. Many Mk3 owners report the manual sequence simply won’t take and the reliable answer is FORScan with a cheap OBD adapter (around $50, e.g. an OBDLink EX). Its “Enter electric parking brake maintenance mode” function retracts and locks the calipers every time, even though the Kuga sometimes isn’t listed as officially supported.
Does Auto Hold really matter? Yes — leaving Auto Hold active is the single most common reason the manual entry fails on this car. Turn it off before you start.
Is the EPB fitted to every Kuga Mk3? Yes. The Mk3 uses the electronic parking brake across the range, including the plug-in hybrid and full-hybrid versions.
Do I rotate the piston while compressing it? No — once retracted in service mode the piston pushes straight in; it is not a screw-in type.
If a warning light or fault code appears during the job, decode it on our sister site autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Ford. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.