Symptom Chart - Brake Noise/Vibration

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford RV Cutaway, 2003 Ford Econoline, 2003 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Cutaway. 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.
	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 DISC & DRUM for front or rear disc brakes.
	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 DISC & DRUM for front or rear disc brakes.
	Loose brake disc shield.	TIGHTEN the brake disc shield bolts to specification. REFER to DISC & DRUM .
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 DISC & DRUM for front or rear disc brakes.
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 DISC & DRUM for front disc brakes, rear drum brakes and 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 DISC & DRUM for front disc brakes, rear drum brakes and 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 .
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 DISC & DRUM for front disc brakes, rear drum brakes and rear disc brakes.