Symptom Chart - Brake Noise/Vibration

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2006 Ford Crown Victoria. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

BRAKE NOISE/VIBRATION - SYMPTOM CHART

Condition	Possible Sources	Action
Rattling noise	Caliper mounting bolts loose	CHECK the caliper bolts. TIGHTEN to specifications.
	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 front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for 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 front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brake pads.
	Loose brake disc shield	TIGHTEN the brake disc shield bolts to specification. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brake pads.
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 front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brake pads.
Squealing noise - an intermittent squeal brought on by cold, heat, water, mud or snow	Disc brake pads	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 front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brake pads.
Moaning noise	Brake linings contaminated with grease or oil	INSPECT the brake pads and shoes for contamination. REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary.
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 front disc brake pads or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brake pads.