Symptom Chart -Brake Noise/Vibration

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

SYMPTOM CHART -BRAKE NOISE/VIBRATION

Condition	Possible Sources	Action
Rattling noise	Caliper mounting bolts loose	CHECK the caliper bolts. TIGHTEN to specifications. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear disc brake pads.
	Damaged or worn caliper pins or retainers	CHECK the caliper pins and retainers for lubrication and correct fit. LUBRICATE or INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear disc brake pads.
	Missing or damaged anti-rattle clips or springs	CHECK the brake pads for missing clips or broken springs. INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front disc brakes pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear disc brake pads.
	Loose brake disc shield	TIGHTEN the brake disc shield bolts to specification. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front brake disc shield bolts or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear brake disc shield.
Clicking noise - with brakes applied with ABS brakes	ABS hydraulic control unit	Acceptable condition.
Squealing noise - occurs on first (morning) brake application	Disc brake pads	Acceptable condition. Caused by humidity and low disc brake pad temperature.
Squealing noise - a continuous squeal	Disc brake pads or linings worn below minimum thickness	INSTALL new disc brake pads. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear disc brake pads.
Squealing noise - an intermittent squeal brought on by cold, heat, water, mud or snow	Disc brake pad	Acceptable condition.
Groaning noise - occurs at low speeds with brake lightly applied (creeping)	Disc brake pads	Acceptable condition.
Grinding noise - continuous	Disc brake pads or linings worn below minimum thickness	INSPECT the disc brake pads, brake discs/drums and attaching hardware for damage. REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear disc brakes.
Moaning noise	Brake linings contaminated with grease or oil	INSPECT the brake pads and shoes for contamination. REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear disc brakes.
Brake vibration/shudder - occurs when brakes are applied	Uneven disc or drum wear Uneven disc brake pad or lining transfer Suspension components	GO to PINPOINT TEST A .
Brake vibration/shudder - occurs when the brake pedal is released	Brake drag	INSPECT the disc brake pads or linings for premature wear. REPAIR or INSTALL a new caliper or wheel cylinder as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for the front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for the rear disc brakes.