my Jaguar XF X260 (2015-2024) shakes when I brake, what could it be?

Symptoms

• Steering wheel shakes during braking
• Vibration felt through the brake pedal
• Uneven brake pad wear
• Pulsating brake feel
• Possible noise when braking (grinding or squeaking)

Diagnostic Steps

1. Inspect brake rotors for warping or damage using a dial indicator.
2. Check brake pads for uneven wear or contamination.
3. Examine suspension components (e.g., control arms, bushings, and tie rods) for wear or damage.
4. Assess tire condition and balance; check for uneven wear patterns.
5. Perform a visual inspection for any fluid leaks in the braking system.

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety.

2. Remove Front Wheels

• Tools Required: Socket set, jack stands, lug wrench
• Loosen lug nuts on the front wheels.
• Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors

• Measure the thickness of the brake rotors using calipers; replace if below the minimum specification.
• If warped, remove the caliper by unscrewing the mounting bolts.
• Remove the rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws, if applicable.
• Install new rotors, ensuring proper alignment and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specification (typically 90-100 Nm).

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Check the brake pads for wear indicators; replace if worn down.
• Remove old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
• Clean the caliper bracket and apply brake pad grease to the contact points.
• Install new brake pads, ensuring they are seated properly.

5. Reassemble and Reinstall Wheels

• Reattach the caliper, ensuring all bolts are torqued to specification.
• Reinstall the front wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification (typically 120-140 Nm).