Parts for your 1996 Ford Falcon-Pedal pads

1996 Ford Falcon pedal pads — what they do and when to replace them

Based on factory literature for the EF/EL series (1994–1998) and Ford’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (Microcat), the 1996 Ford Falcon is fitted with replaceable rubber pedal pads on the brake pedal and, on manual models, the clutch pedal. These pads are listed as service items in workshop manuals for EF/EL Falcons and are widely catalogued by Australian parts suppliers for EA–EL models. The accelerator on these Falcons is typically a moulded pedal assembly and does not use a separate, removable rubber pad in standard trim.

On a ’96 Falcon, pedal pads do a simple but crucial job: they provide a grippy, non-slip surface so boots don’t slide off the pedal, especially in the wet. Over time, the rubber hardens, smooths off, or tears. When that happens, stopping distance and pedal feel can suffer, and the car can cop a defect or WOF/RWC fail for having worn or missing pads.

It’s smart to treat pedal pads like wiper blades—cheap, quick, and safety-critical. A fresh pad restores that sure-footed feel on the brake and clutch and tidies up the cabin look.

• Inspection: Check at each service or every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for cracking, glazing, or bald spots where the tread pattern has worn smooth.
• Roadworthiness: Most AU/NZ inspections expect pedals to have a secure, non-slip surface. If the pad is loose, hardened, or missing, replace it.
• Fitment notes: Auto Falcons have one brake pedal pad. Manuals have both brake and clutch pads. The accelerator is usually a complete pedal assembly rather than a separate pad.

1. Replacement: Pop off the old pad by levering a corner free and peeling it off the metal pedal plate.
2. Prep the new pad: Warming it briefly in hot water makes the rubber more pliable.
3. Install: Hook the top lip over the pedal, then work the sides and bottom on until the lip sits fully around the plate. Confirm it’s seated evenly and won’t twist.

There’s no special maintenance beyond a quick clean with mild soapy water—skip petroleum-based cleaners that can harden the rubber. If the car sees a lot of city stop–start or muddy worksites, expect to refresh the pads more often. Given the low cost and the safety upside, many owners replace both brake and clutch pads together so the feel is consistent across pedals.

FAQs

Which pedals on a 1996 Ford Falcon have replaceable pads?
The brake pedal on all models uses a rubber pad, and manual versions also have a clutch pedal pad. The accelerator is generally a moulded assembly without a separate removable pad from factory.

How do they know a pedal pad needs replacing?
If the tread is worn smooth, the rubber is cracked or shiny, or the pad can twist on the pedal plate, it’s due. Any slipping underfoot in wet conditions is a giveaway. Many inspections will flag a worn or missing pad.

Are aftermarket pads OK, or should they stick with genuine?
Quality aftermarket pads are fine if they fit snugly and have a decent tread pattern. Genuine parts match the original feel and fit, but reputable aftermarket options are usually more cost-effective and readily available.