Solving noise problems: Ferodo Tips for correct brake removal

Brake Pad Removal
If a road test is possible, carry this out first, and note the conditions under which the noise occurs.

Removal Process

Picture 3

Picture 2

Picture 1

• Jack up the vehicle
• Check the wheel for free rotation – if there is no free rotation, it means that the brake is not retracting (Picture 1)

Remove road wheel and check the installation – looking for:
• score marks
• uneven or taper wear
• corrosion lip on the rotor
• disc thickness variation
• fluid leaks (Picture 2)
• slide pin damage (Picture 3)

Check that the pads are the correct way round in the caliper

Confirm that the pads are the correct way up in the caliper

Check that the pads fit freely in the brackets

Picture 4

Check that all caliper clips and springs are present and correct (Picture 4)

Remove the pads and examine the friction surfaces to analyse potential problems which may be related to noise

Symptoms 

Tapered Pads
Appearance Uneven wear, tapered pads
Cause Distorted caliper, caliper slides sticking, excessive caliper clearance
Effect Premature pad wear, uneven braking pressure, noise
Remedy Replace pad set, maintain & service caliper
Note Some vehicles use pads that are tapered by design. Refer to the specific vehicle application, and if the tapering is beyond the normal specification, replace the brake pad

Uneven Wear
Appearance Uneven wear on pad surface
Cause Irregularly worn brake disc (a wear lip will be visible on the disc)
Effect Squeal & judder, premature pad wear
Remedy Replace brake discs and pads

Uneven Wear within Axle 
Appearance One or more brake pad within the axle set will be excessively worn
Cause Caliper guide pins / piston sticking
Effect The vehicle pulls to one side while braking, uneven & rapid pad wear, squeal & judder
Remedy Maintain all caliper slides & pistons, replace pads. Check discs

Damaged Back Plate
Appearance Damaged back plate
Cause Incorrect assembly, excessive force used during fitting
Effect Braking inefficiency, irregular wear, noise & judder
Remedy Replace full brake pad set

Piston Damage
Appearance Anti-noise features (rubber-coat / shim) damaged by piston
Cause Piston not retracting fully, heavy brake use
Effect Overheating, noise
Remedy Replace brake pad set, maintain caliper