why is my Ford Explorer making a grinding noise when braking?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and is securely lifted with jack stands.
• Disconnect the battery for safety.

2. Remove Wheel

• Use a lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts.
• Remove the wheel to access the brake components.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Inspection: Check the thickness of the brake pads. If they are below 3mm, replacement is necessary.
• Removal:
  • Remove the caliper bolts using a socket set.
  • Carefully slide the caliper off the brake rotor.
  • Support the caliper with a bungee cord or similar to avoid straining the brake line.
• Replacement:
  • Remove the worn brake pads from the caliper bracket.
  • Install new brake pads, ensuring they are positioned correctly.
  • Reattach the caliper over the new pads and tighten the caliper bolts to manufacturer specifications (typically around 23-30 ft-lbs).

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Inspection: Check rotors for scoring or warping using a dial indicator.
• Replacement:
  • If the rotors are damaged, remove them by unscrewing the retaining screws (if applicable) and sliding them off the hub.
  • Install new rotors, ensuring they are clean and free of oil.
  • Reinstall the caliper assembly.

5. Reassemble and Test

• Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque (around 100-120 ft-lbs).
• Reconnect the battery.

Tools Required:

• Lug wrench
• Socket set
• Torque wrench
• Brake cleaner
• Bungee cord

Parts Required:

• Brake pads
• Brake rotors (if needed)
• Brake caliper bolts (if damaged)

Estimated Repair Time: 2-4 hours

Safety Warnings:

• Always allow the brakes to cool before working on them.
• Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before starting repairs.