why does my Ford Explorer shake when I brake

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

520 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Discover the causes of shaking when braking in Ford Explorer. Follow our detailed guide for diagnostic steps, tools, and solutions to fix the issue.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Allow the brakes to cool before working on them.
•Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.

Symptoms

•Vibration in the steering wheel during braking
•Pulsating brake pedal feel
•Uneven wear on brake pads
•Noise during braking (squeaking or grinding)
•Vehicle pulling to one side when braking

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake pads and rotors for wear or damage.
2
Check brake fluid level and condition.
3
Examine suspension components for play or damage.
4
Perform a wheel alignment check.
5
Inspect wheel bearings for wear or looseness.
6
Scan for any error codes related to the braking system.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Torque wrench
•Brake cleaner
•Caliper tool
•OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

•New brake pads (if worn)
•New rotors (if warped)
•Suspension parts (if damaged)

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Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, torque wrench, brake cleaner, caliper tool, OBD-II scanner.

2. Remove Wheel

Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is on the ground.
Raise the vehicle with the jack and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts and wheel.

3. Inspect Brake Components

Brake Pads and Rotors:
- Remove the caliper by unscrewing the caliper bolts.
- Slide the caliper off the rotor and support it with a wire hanger.
- Inspect the brake pads for thickness; replace if below 3mm.
- Check the rotor for warping or scoring; if warped (measured with a dial indicator), resurface or replace.

4. Check Suspension and Wheel Bearings

Inspect suspension components (control arms, bushings, tie rods) for any signs of wear or damage.
Check the wheel bearings by wiggling the wheel; any play indicates a need for replacement.

5. Reassemble Components

If any brake components were replaced, install the new brake pads and rotor.
Reattach the caliper and torque the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's specification (usually around 25-35 ft-lbs).
Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

6. Lower the Vehicle and Test

Lower the vehicle off the jack stands.
Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque (usually 100-120 ft-lbs).
Start the vehicle and perform a test drive to ensure the shaking has been resolved.