Pulsating Brakes on my 2019 Continental - What gives?

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David L. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:29 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Lincoln Continental Black Label

Hello fellow Lincoln owners,

I'm experiencing a frustrating issue with the brakes on my 2019 Lincoln Continental Black Label. When I apply the brakes, especially at highway speeds, I feel a distinct pulsation through the brake pedal and sometimes even a vibration in the steering wheel.

It's not constant, but it's happening more frequently now. The car has about 45,000 miles on it. I'm wondering if this is a common issue for this model year or if it points to something specific.

Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Pulsating brakes on your 2019 Lincoln Continental are a common symptom and usually indicate an issue with the brake system, most often related to the rotors.

Here are the most likely causes and what to consider:

  1. Warped Brake Rotors: This is the most frequent cause. Rotors can become warped due to excessive heat or uneven cooling, leading to an uneven surface that causes the caliper to 'push' back on the pedal as it rotates. This is felt as pulsation.
  2. Uneven Brake Pad Wear: While less common than warped rotors, unevenly worn pads can also contribute to a pulsating feel.
  3. Sticky Caliper Piston: A caliper that isn't retracting properly can cause continuous friction on one part of the rotor, leading to localized overheating and warping.
  4. Loose Wheel Bearings: Though less likely to cause pulsation directly, a very worn wheel bearing can introduce play that might be felt through the braking system.

When to See a Shop:

  • It's highly recommended to have your brake system inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Braking issues are critical for safety.
  • A technician can measure rotor runout, inspect pad thickness, and check caliper function.
  • If your ABS light is also on (though not mentioned), it could indicate a sensor issue, potentially triggering codes like C0034 (ABS Wheel Speed Sensor) or C1014 (Brake Pressure Sensor). However, pulsation alone is typically mechanical.

Addressing this issue quickly will prevent further damage to your braking system and ensure your safety.