what causes my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) brakes to pulsate

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

501 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 pulsating brakes on Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always disconnect the battery before working on the braking system.
•Allow the brakes to cool if they have been used recently to prevent burns.

Symptoms

•Brake pedal pulsation when applying brakes
•Vibration felt in the steering wheel during braking
•Increased stopping distance
•Brake noise (squeaking or grinding)
•Uneven brake pad wear
•Dashboard warning light may illuminate

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors visually for signs of warping or uneven wear.
2
Check brake pads for thickness and uneven wear patterns.
3
Use a dial indicator to measure rotor runout.
4
Verify brake fluid level and condition.
5
Scan for any brake system-related error codes using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Inspect wheel bearings for play or damage.

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

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Dial indicator
•Brake cleaner
•Jack and jack stands

Parts Required

•Brake rotors (if replacing)
•Brake pads (if replacing)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors visually for signs of warping or uneven wear.
2
Check brake pads for thickness and uneven wear patterns.
3
Use a dial indicator to measure rotor runout.
4
Verify brake fluid level and condition.
5
Scan for any brake system-related error codes using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Inspect wheel bearings for play or damage.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Wear safety glasses and gloves.

2. Remove Wheel

Loosen wheel lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is on the ground.
Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect Rotors

Check the rotors for warping using a dial indicator.
- If warping is found: Consider resurfacing or replacing the rotors.
Clean the rotor surface with brake cleaner to remove any debris.

4. Check Brake Pads

Remove the caliper by unscrewing the caliper mounting bolts.
Inspect the brake pads for wear; replace if they are below the manufacturer’s recommended thickness.
Ensure pad clips are not damaged and are properly seated.

5. Replace or Resurface Rotors

If rotors are warped:
- Resurface them if they meet the minimum thickness requirement.
- Replace with new rotors if they do not meet specifications.
- Torque to manufacturer specifications (typically around 100-130 lb-ft) when reinstalling.

6. Reassemble and Test

Reinstall the caliper, ensuring all bolts are tightened to specifications.
Reattach the wheel and tighten lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.
Lower the vehicle from jack stands and perform a final torque check on the lug nuts.