Symptom Chart - Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mercury Milan, 2009 Lincoln MKZ, and 2009 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) symptoms should be identified using the diagnostic tools that are available. For a list of these tools, an explanation of their uses and a glossary of common terms, refer to NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS article. Since it is possible any one of multiple systems may be the cause of a symptom, it may be necessary to use a process of elimination type of diagnostic approach to pinpoint the responsible system. If this is not the causal system for the symptom, refer back to NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS article for the next likely system and continue diagnosis.

Condition	Possible Sources	Action
Vibration when the brakes are applied	Brake disc(s) Suspension components	Go To PINPOINT TEST A .
Brake vibration/shudder - occurs when the brake pedal is released	Brake drag	Go to SYMPTOM CHART - BRAKE SYSTEM .
Rattling noise	Caliper guide pins or guide pin bolts	CHECK the caliper guide pins and guide pin bolts. REFER to BRAKE SYSTEM INSPECTION .
	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 article for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE article for rear disc brakes.
	Loose brake disc shield	TIGHTEN the brake disc shield bolts to specification. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE article for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE article for rear disc brakes.
Squealing noise - occurs on first (morning) brake application	Brake pads	Acceptable condition. Caused by humidity and low brake pad temperature.
Squealing noise - a continuous squeal	Brake pads	INSPECT brake pads. REFER to BRAKE SYSTEM INSPECTION .
Squealing noise - an intermittent squeal	Brake pads	Acceptable condition. Caused by cold, heat, water, mud or snow.
Groaning noise - occurs at low speeds with brake lightly applied (creeping)	Brake pads	Acceptable condition.
Grinding/moaning noise - continuous	Brake pads Brake disc	INSPECT the brake pads, brake discs, and attaching hardware for damage. VERIFY brake components are within specifications. REFER to BRAKE SYSTEM INSPECTION .