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Squealing Brakes and Vibration on my 2018 F-150 Lariat

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:25 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a really annoying squealing sound coming from my brakes, especially when I'm coming to a stop at lower speeds. It's a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat with about 75,000 miles on it. The sound has gotten progressively worse over the last few weeks.

Lately, I've also started feeling a vibration through the pedal and steering wheel when I apply the brakes, particularly when braking from highway speeds. It feels like something is warped or uneven. I'm not sure if these issues are related or if I'm dealing with two separate problems.

Has anyone else experienced this with their F-150? What could be causing this, and what should I be looking at first? Any advice on DIY checks or what to tell my mechanic would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:25 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Squealing brakes and vibration are common issues that often point to worn or damaged brake components. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and steps:

  1. Identify the Cause:

    • Squealing: This is typically caused by worn brake pads (the wear indicator rubbing against the rotor), glazed pads, or sometimes even rust buildup on the rotors from sitting. Less commonly, it can be a foreign object caught in the caliper.
    • Vibration (Shudder): This almost always indicates warped brake rotors. When rotors overheat, they can develop uneven surfaces, causing the caliper to grab inconsistently, leading to vibration through the pedal and steering wheel. It can also be caused by uneven pad deposits on the rotor surface.

  2. DIY Checks:

    • Visual Inspection: Park on a level surface and visually inspect your brake pads and rotors through the wheel spokes. Look for thin pads, deep grooves, or discoloration on the rotors.
    • Pad Thickness: If you can, measure the thickness of your brake pads. Most manufacturers recommend replacement when pads are at 3-4mm or less.
    • Rotor Condition: Feel the rotor surface for unevenness or significant ridges. A slight lip is normal, but deep grooves or a wavy surface indicate wear.

  3. Common Solutions:

    • Pad and Rotor Replacement: For both squealing and vibration, the most common solution is to replace the brake pads and rotors. It's generally recommended to replace both on the same axle (front or rear) simultaneously.
    • Caliper Inspection: Ensure your brake calipers are not seized. A seized caliper can cause uneven pad wear, overheating, and pulling to one side.

  4. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediate Concern: If the vibration is severe, or if you feel a significant loss of braking power, do not delay. This is a safety issue.
    • Beyond DIY: If you're uncomfortable performing brake work yourself, or if your visual inspection doesn't clearly identify the problem, a professional mechanic can diagnose and repair the issue safely. They can also check for other related components like wheel bearings or suspension issues that might mimic brake problems. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to reduced braking performance and potentially dangerous situations.
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