FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Sixth Generation (2020-present)/my Ford Explorer's rear brakes are making a squealing noise what could it be

my Ford Explorer's rear brakes are making a squealing noise what could it be

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
449 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

Learn how to diagnose and fix squealing brakes on your Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Brakes
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Always disconnect the battery before working on the braking system.
  • ⚠Allow brake components to cool before handling.

Symptoms

  • •Squealing noise when brakes are applied
  • •Reduced braking performance
  • •Brake pedal feels spongy or unresponsive
  • •Vibration or pulsation during braking
  • •Warning light on the dashboard (if applicable)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the rear brake pads for wear and thickness.
  2. 2Check for proper installation of brake components.
  3. 3Examine the brake rotors for scoring or damage.
  4. 4Inspect brake calipers for proper operation and leaks.
  5. 5Check brake fluid level and condition in the master cylinder.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and materials.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
  • Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.

2. Remove the Wheel

  • Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle and place it on jack stands.
  • Remove the lug nuts with a socket wrench and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

  • Remove the caliper bolts with a socket wrench and take off the caliper.
  • Hang the caliper using a bungee cord to avoid strain on the brake line.
  • Remove the old brake pads and inspect the backing plates for wear.
  • If necessary, replace with new brake pads. Ensure they are the correct type for the vehicle model.

4. Inspect and Resurface/Replace Rotors

  • Check the brake rotor surface for scoring or warping.
  • If scoring is present, consider resurfacing the rotors; if they are warped beyond specification, replace them with new rotors.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten rotor bolts to manufacturer specifications.

5. Reassemble

  • Reinstall the brake caliper over the new pads.
  • Tighten caliper bolts to manufacturer torque specifications.
  • Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts, and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

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 and jack stands
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Bungee cord
  • Brake cleaner

Parts Required

  • New rear brake pads
  • New brake rotors (if required)

Additional Information

Component

Brakes

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

2 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. What are the common causes of overheating in the Ford Explorer 2020?

    Learn about the common causes of overheating in the 2020 Ford Explorer, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Temperature gauge showing high temperature
    • •Warning lights on the dashboard (temperature warning light)
    • +{count} more
  2. What are the common issues with the Ford Explorer 2020's parking sensors?

    Learn about common parking sensor issues in the 2020 Ford Explorer, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:parking sensors
    Symptoms
    • •Continuous beeping or warning sounds while the vehicle is in reverse, even when no obstacles are present.
    • •Sensors fail to detect objects that are within the sensor's range.
    • +{count} more
  3. What should I check if my 2021 Ford Explorer has a rough ride quality?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough ride quality issues in your 2021 Ford Explorer with our step-by-step guide.

    Component:suspension system
    Symptoms
    • •Excessive Vibration
    • •Bouncing or Swaying
    • +{count} more
  4. Why does my 2020 Ford Explorer make a whining noise when accelerating?

    Learn how to diagnose and repair a whining noise during acceleration in a 2020 Ford Explorer. Follow our step-by-step guide for effective solutions.

    Component:serpentine belt, transmission, differential, wheel bearings, power steering pump
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise that increases in pitch with acceleration
    • •Noise is most noticeable during light to moderate acceleration
    • +{count} more
  5. What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my 2021 Ford Explorer?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix check engine light issues in your 2021 Ford Explorer with detailed steps, symptoms, and required tools.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Decreased fuel efficiency
    • +{count} more
  6. What are the signs of a failing catalytic converter in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation?

    Learn about the symptoms of a failing catalytic converter in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation and how to diagnose and replace it.

    Component:catalytic converter
    Symptoms
    • •Check Engine Light (CEL)
    • •Poor Engine Performance
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation