my Ford F-150 14th Generation (2021-2024) makes a grinding noise when braking what's wrong

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and safety equipment.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
• Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves.

2. Remove Wheel

• Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the wheel is still on the ground.
• Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Sub-step 1: Remove the brake caliper by loosening the caliper bolts with a socket set.
• Sub-step 2: Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and hang it using a bungee cord (do not let it dangle from the brake line).
• Sub-step 3: Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket. Note the orientation for reinstallation.
• Sub-step 4: Install new brake pads, ensuring they are seated properly in the bracket.

4. Inspect and Replace Rotors (if needed)

• Sub-step 1: Check the brake rotor for any signs of scoring or excessive wear.
• Sub-step 2: If the rotor is damaged, remove the caliper bracket by loosening its bolts.
• Sub-step 3: Slide the rotor off the hub. If it’s stuck, gently tap it with a rubber mallet.
• Sub-step 4: Install the new rotor, ensuring it is seated flat against the hub.

5. Reassemble Brake Components

• Sub-step 1: Reinstall the caliper bracket if it was removed.
• Sub-step 2: Reattach the brake caliper over the new pads and rotor, tightening the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specification (typically around 20-25 lb-ft).
• Sub-step 3: Reinstall the wheel, hand-tightening the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle.
• Sub-step 4: Lower the vehicle and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.

6. Test Brakes

• Pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure proper pad seating.
• Check brake fluid level and top off if necessary.