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What are the common brake system issues in a 2021 Ford Explorer? - Ford Explorer
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Sixth Generation (2020-present)/What are the common brake system issues in a 2021 Ford Explorer?

What are the common brake system issues in a 2021 Ford Explorer?

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
2-4 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
711 words

Problem Statement

Learn about common brake system issues in the 2021 Ford Explorer, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component
brake system
Estimated Time
2-4 hours

Symptoms

  • •Squeaking or Grinding Noises
  • •Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
  • •Vibrations During Braking
  • •Warning Lights
  • •Pulling to One Side

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6

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

  • •Basic Hand Tools (sockets, wrenches)
  • •Torque Wrench
  • •Brake Pad Tool or Piston Tool
  • •OBD-II Scanner
  • •Brake Fluid Tester
  • •Jack and Jack Stands
  • •Brake Cleaner
  • •Safety Glasses and Gloves

Additional Information

Affected Component
brake system
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
8 items

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Back to Generation
Common Brake System Issues in a 2021 Ford Explorer (Sixth Generation U625)

The 2021 Ford Explorer, like any modern vehicle, can experience various brake system issues. Here are some common symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions to address these problems.

Common Symptoms of Brake Issues

  1. Squeaking or Grinding Noises:

    • Symptoms: High-pitched squeaks or metal-on-metal grinding when braking.

  2. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal:

    • Symptoms: Brake pedal feels unusually soft or sinks to the floor without much resistance.

  3. Vibrations During Braking:

    • Symptoms: The steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates when engaging the brakes.

  4. Warning Lights:

    • Symptoms: The brake warning light or ABS light illuminates on the dashboard.

  5. Pulling to One Side:

    • Symptoms: The vehicle pulls to one side when applying the brakes.
Tools Required
  • Basic Hand Tools (sockets, wrenches)
  • Torque Wrench
  • Brake Pad Tool or Piston Tool
  • OBD-II Scanner
  • Brake Fluid Tester
  • Jack and Jack Stands
  • Brake Cleaner
  • Safety Glasses and Gloves
Repair Instructions

1. Replacing Brake Pads and Rotors

Tools Needed: Jack, Jack Stands, Lug Wrench, Socket Set, Brake Pad Tool, Torque Wrench.

Steps:

  1. Lift the Vehicle:

    • Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.

  2. Remove the Wheel:

    • Use a lug wrench to remove the wheel bolts and take the wheel off.

  3. Remove the Caliper:

    • Unbolt the brake caliper using the appropriate socket. Hang the caliper using a wire to avoid stressing the brake line.

  4. Remove Old Pads and Rotors:

    • Slide out the old brake pads.
    • If replacing rotors, remove the caliper bracket and unbolt the rotor.

  5. Install New Rotor:

    • Place the new rotor onto the hub and secure it if applicable.

  6. Install New Brake Pads:

    • Compress the caliper piston using a brake pad tool.
    • Insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.

  7. Reattach the Caliper:

    • Place the caliper back over the pads and bolt it in place.

  8. Reinstall Wheel:

    • Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

  9. Lower the Vehicle:

    • Remove jack stands and lower the vehicle.

  10. Torque Lug Nuts:

  • Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

2. Bleeding the Brake System

Tools Needed: Brake Bleeder Kit, Brake Fluid, Wrench Set.

Steps:

  1. Check Brake Fluid:

    • Ensure the brake fluid reservoir is full.

  2. Locate Bleeder Screws:

    • Locate the brake bleeder screws on each caliper.

  3. Start Bleeding:

    • Attach a clear hose to the bleeder screw and place the other end in a container.
    • Have an assistant pump the brake pedal several times and hold it down.

  4. Open Bleeder Screw:

    • While the pedal is held down, open the bleeder screw to release air and fluid.
    • Close the screw before the assistant releases the pedal.

  5. Repeat:

    • Repeat the process until no air bubbles are visible in the fluid.

  6. Check Fluid Level:

    • Recheck and refill the brake fluid reservoir as needed.

  7. Test Drive:

    • After repairs, perform a test drive to ensure proper brake function.
Conclusion

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to brake system issues can ensure the safe operation of your 2021 Ford Explorer. If symptoms persist after performing these repairs, it may be necessary to consult a professional technician for further diagnosis.