Ford Escape Quiz
Chassis

Diagnosis and Testing - Brake System

In this manual: Chassis
General Information — 26Chassis — 160Powertrain — 323Electrical — 356Body and Paint — 290
~19min read

Global Customer Symptom Codes (GCSC) Table

The diagnosis in this manual assumes a certain level of skill and knowledge of Ford-approved diagnostic procedures.
REFER TO: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).


Symptom Action
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Performance/Efficiency > Sticks/Binds GO to Pinpoint Test G
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Lock/Grab > Always GO to Pinpoint Test D
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Lock/Grab > Cold GO to Pinpoint Test D
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Lock/Grab > Hot GO to Pinpoint Test D
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Lock/Grab > Intermittent GO to Pinpoint Test D
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Pedal Feel > Excessive Effort GO to Pinpoint Test H
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Pedal Feel > Long Travel GO to Pinpoint Test C
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Pedal Feel > Spongy / Soft GO to Pinpoint Test C
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Pedal Feel > Spongy / Soft GO to Pinpoint Test E
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Pedal Feel > Sticks/Binds GO to Pinpoint Test E
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Stopping > Pull > Always GO to Pinpoint Test B
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Steering Wheel > Feel/Wander/Pull > Intermittent GO to Pinpoint Test B
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Pedals/Lever > Brake > Free/Attached GO to Pinpoint Test F
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Pedals/Lever > Brake > Power Assist GO to Pinpoint Test F
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Pedals/Lever > Brake > Sticks/Binds GO to Pinpoint Test F
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Pedals/Lever > Brake > Sticks/Binds GO to Pinpoint Test H
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Cold GO to Pinpoint Test J
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Cold GO to Pinpoint Test K
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Cold GO to Pinpoint Test L
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Hot GO to Pinpoint Test J
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Hot GO to Pinpoint Test K
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Hot GO to Pinpoint Test L
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Intermittent GO to Pinpoint Test J
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Intermittent GO to Pinpoint Test K
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Intermittent GO to Pinpoint Test L
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Low Speed GO to Pinpoint Test J
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Low Speed GO to Pinpoint Test K
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Stopping > Low Speed GO to Pinpoint Test L
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Noise > Front > Intermittent GO to Pinpoint Test I
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Vibration > Stopping > Cold GO to Pinpoint Test A
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Vibration > Stopping > Hot GO to Pinpoint Test A
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Vibration > Stopping > Intermittent GO to Pinpoint Test A
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Vibration > Stopping > High Speed GO to Pinpoint Test A
Stopping/Steering/Driving > Vibration > Stopping > Low Speed GO to Pinpoint Test A

Symptom Chart

Symptom Chart: Brake System

The diagnosis in this manual assumes a certain level of skill and knowledge of Ford-approved diagnostic procedures.
REFER TO: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).

Condition Action
The red brake warning indicator and the yellow ABS indicator are on.
REFER TO: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control System (206-09 Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control System, Diagnosis and Testing).
Red brake warning indicator always/never on
REFER TO: Instrument Cluster, Message Center and Warning Chimes - Vehicles With: Head-Up Display (HUD) (413-01 Instrument Cluster, Message Center and Warning Chimes, Diagnosis and Testing).
Vehicle pulls or drifts during braking GO to Pinpoint Test B
Brake pedal sinks quickly or bleeds down slowly GO to Pinpoint Test C
Brakes lock up with light brake pedal application GO to Pinpoint Test D
Excessive brake pedal travel (low/spongy pedal) GO to Pinpoint Test E
Brake pedal travel is inconsistent GO to Pinpoint Test F
Brake drag GO to Pinpoint Test G
Excessive brake pedal effort GO to Pinpoint Test H

Symptom Chart: NVH

The diagnosis in this manual assumes a certain level of skill and knowledge of Ford-approved diagnostic procedures.
REFER TO: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).

Condition Action
Vibration when braking GO to Pinpoint Test A
Brake vibration/shudder occurs when the brake pedal is released GO to Pinpoint Test G
Rattle noise GO to Pinpoint Test I
Squeal noise - occurs on first (morning) brake pedal application GO to Pinpoint Test J
Squeal noise - continuous squeal GO to Pinpoint Test J
Squeal noise - intermittent squeal GO to Pinpoint Test J
Groan noise - occurs at low speeds with light brake pedal application (creep noise) GO to Pinpoint Test K
Scrape/groan noise - continuous GO to Pinpoint Test L

Pinpoint Tests

The diagnosis in this manual assumes a certain level of skill and knowledge of Ford-approved diagnostic procedures.
REFER TO: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).


PINPOINT TEST A: VIBRATION WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

Moderate and hard braking may produce HCU noise and brake pedal pulsation. Pedal pulsation combined with noise during hard braking, or on loose gravel, bumps, wet roads or snow-covered surfaces, is acceptable and indicates correct ABS operation. Brake pedal pulsation or steering wheel shudder during braking (frequency proportional to vehicle speed) indicates a brake or suspension component concern.

Possible Sources

  • Brake disc(s)
  • Suspension Components
  • Brake pads
A1 ROAD TEST THE VEHICLE - LIGHT BRAKING
  • Road test the vehicle. Warm up the brakes by reducing vehicle speed from 80 to 32 km/h with light brake application. At highway speeds of 89 to 97 km/h, apply the brake pedal with light effort.

Is vibration/shudder felt in the steering wheel, seat or brake pedal?
Yes GO to A3
No GO to A2
A2 CHECK THE VEHICLE IN ROAD CONDITIONS - MODERATE TO HARD BRAKING
  • Road test the vehicle. At highway speeds of 89-97 km/h (55-60 mph), apply the brake pedal with moderate to hard effort.

Is vibration/shudder present?
Yes GO to A3
No The concern is not present at this time.
A3 CHECK ABS (ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM) OPERATION
  • Road test the vehicle and brake on a dry, firm surface, then brake on a wet, snow-covered or loose surface (such as gravel).

Is vibration/shudder present only on wet, snow-covered or loose surfaces?
Yes This is normal ABS operating condition.
No GO to A4
A4 CHECK FRONT SUSPENSION
  • Check the front suspension.

Are all suspension components in satisfactory condition?
Yes GO to A5
No REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. CHECK the system for proper operation.
A5 CHECK THE FRONT BRAKE DISCS
  • Inspect the front brake discs.
    REFER TO: Specifications (206-00 Brake System - General Information, Specifications).
    INSTALL new brake discs if necessary. REFER TO: Brake Disc Machining (206-00 Brake System - General Information, General Procedures).
    REFER TO: Brake Disc (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
  • Road test the vehicle.

Is there vibration/shudder?
Yes GO to A6
No Repair is complete.
A6 CHECK THE REAR SUSPENSION
  • Check the rear suspension.

Are all suspension components in satisfactory condition?
Yes INSPECT the rear brake discs.
REFER TO: Specifications (206-00 Brake System - General Information, Specifications).
MACHINE or INSTALL new brake discs if necessary. REFER TO: Brake Disc (206-04 Rear Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
REFER TO: Rear Suspension (204-02 Rear Suspension, Diagnosis and Testing).
No REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. CHECK the system for proper operation.
PINPOINT TEST B: VEHICLE PULLS OR DRIFTS DURING BRAKING

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

During braking, the vehicle should stop quickly, smoothly and in a straight line from the initial pedal application. Occasionally the vehicle pulls to one side or the other during braking. This indicates a concern with the brake or suspension component.

Possible Sources

  • Brake calipers and/or guide pins
  • Flexible brake hose
  • Brake pads
  • Brake discs
  • Tires
  • Suspension component(s) and/or wheel alignment
B1 CHECK THE BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS
  • Make sure there are no loose or damaged components.

Are there any loose or damaged components?
Yes CHECK the brake system components and TIGHTEN to specification. INSTALL new components as necessary.
No GO to B2
B2 CHECK THE WHEELS AND TIRES
  • Make sure there are no damaged components or uneven tire wear.

Are the wheels and tires in satisfactory condition? Is there uneven tire wear?
Yes
REFER TO: Wheels and Tires (204-04A Wheels and Tires, Diagnosis and Testing).
No GO to B3
B3 CHECK THE FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION
  • Check the suspension components.
  • Check the suspension alignment.

Are all suspension components in satisfactory condition and within alignment specifications?
Yes GO to Pinpoint Test A
No Adjust the suspension.
REFER TO: Suspension System (204-00 Suspension System - General Information, Diagnosis and Testing). REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. CHECK the system for proper operation.
PINPOINT TEST C: BRAKE PEDAL SINKS QUICKLY OR BLEEDS DOWN SLOWLY

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is forced through the double-wall steel tubing and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. Brake fluid entering the disc brake calipers forces the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the friction surface of the brake disc, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is released, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the unapplied position. If the brake pedal falls rapidly or returns slowly, this indicates a concern with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake fluid leak and/or air in the system
  • ABS/EBD
C1 CHECK THE BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS
  • Make sure there are no loose or damaged components.

Are there any loose or damaged components?
Yes CHECK the brake system components and TIGHTEN to specification. INSTALL new components as necessary.
No GO to C2
C2 CHECK THE SYSTEM FOR LEAKS AND AIR IN THE SYSTEM
  • Inspect the system for leaks. Bleed the brake system.

Are there any leaks in the system?
Yes
REFER TO: Brake System Bleeding - Vehicles with: Electrical Power Brake Booster (206-00 Brake System - General Information, General Procedures).
REFER TO: Brake System Bleeding - Vehicles with: Vacuum Brake Booster (206-00 Brake System - General Information, General Procedures).
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST D: BRAKES LOCK UP WITH LIGHT BRAKE PEDAL APPLICATION

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is forced through the double-wall steel tubing and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. Brake fluid entering the disc brake calipers forces the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the friction surface of the brake disc, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is released, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the unapplied position. Brakes may lock up during application due to overheating or faulty components. This condition indicates a concern with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake pads
  • Flexible brake hose
  • Brake discs
  • Brake calipers and/or guide pins
  • ABS/EBD
D1 CHECK THE BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS
  • Inspect the brake system components.

Are there any damaged components?
Yes INSTALL new components as necessary.
No GO to D2
D2 CHECK THE ABS (ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM) AND HCU (HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT)
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool, perform the ABS self-test.

Is any diagnostic trouble code present?
Yes
REFER TO: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control System (206-09 Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control System, Diagnosis and Testing).
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST E: EXCESSIVE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL (LOW/SPONGY PEDAL)

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

. The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is forced through the double-wall steel tubing and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. Brake fluid entering the disc brake calipers forces the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the friction surface of the brake disc, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is released, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the unapplied position. Leaks and/or air in the system may cause a soft brake pedal and loss of braking in the vehicle. This condition indicates a concern with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake fluid leak and/or air in the system
  • ABS/EBD
  • Brake calipers and/or guide pins
  • Flexible brake hose
E1 CHECK THE SYSTEM FOR LEAKS AND AIR IN THE SYSTEM
  • Inspect the system for leaks.

Are there any leaks in the system?
Yes BLEED the brake system.
REFER TO: Brake System Bleeding - Vehicles With: Electric Brake Booster (206-00 Brake System - General Information, General Procedures).
REFER TO: Brake System Bleeding - Vehicles With: Vacuum Brake Booster (206-00 Brake System - General Information, General Procedures).
No GO to E2
E2 CHECK THE BRAKE DISCS AND BRAKE PADS
  • Inspect the front and rear brake discs and brake pads.

    • REFER TO: Specifications (206-00 Brake System - General Information, Specifications).
      .
    • If necessary, INSTALL new front brake pads.
      REFER TO: Brake Pads (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
    • If necessary, INSTALL new rear brake pads.
      REFER TO: Brake Pads (206-04 Rear Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).

Are the brake discs and brake pads in good condition?
Yes GO to E3
No REPLACE the components as necessary. Perform a road test of the vehicle to verify the repair.
E3 CHECK THE BRAKE CALIPERS AND/OR GUIDE PINS
  • Inspect the brake calipers and guide pins.

Are the brake calipers and guide pins in good condition?
Yes Perform a road test of the vehicle to verify the repair. INSTALL new components as necessary.
No GO to E4
E4 CHECK THE FLEXIBLE BRAKE HOSE
  • Inspect the flexible brake hoses while applying the brakes.

Is the flexible brake hose in good condition?
Yes INSTALL a new brake hose, if necessary. REFER TO: Front Brake Flexible Hose (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
REFER TO: Rear Brake Flexible Hose (206-04 Rear Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST F: BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL IS INCONSISTENT

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is forced through the double-wall steel tubing and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. Brake fluid entering the disc brake calipers forces the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the friction surface of the brake disc, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is released, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the unapplied position. If the brake pedal falls rapidly or returns slowly, this indicates a concern with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake Pedal
  • ABS/EBD
F1 CHECK THE BRAKE PEDAL
  • Inspect the brake pedal for binding, obstructions and correct connection to the booster pushrod.

Are the brake pedal components secure? Are there any loose or damaged components?
Yes REPAIR as necessary. CHECK the brake pedal mounting fasteners for correct torque.
REFER TO: Brake System Bleeding - Vehicles With: Electric Brake Booster (206-00 Brake System - General Information, General Procedures).
REFER TO: Brake System Bleeding - Vehicles With: Vacuum Brake Booster (206-00 Brake System - General Information, General Procedures).
No The system is currently operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST G: BRAKE DRAG

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is forced through the double-walled steel tubing and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. Brake fluid enters the disc brake calipers, forcing the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the friction surface of the brake disc, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is released, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the non-applied position. The vehicle will experience binding if brake fluid pressure is not released or the brake pads do not return to the non-applied position. This condition indicates a problem with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Parking Brake Component
  • Brake Caliper and/or Guide Pins
  • Flexible brake hose
  • ABS/EBD
G1 CHECK THE PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM
  • Inspect the parking brake system.

Is there any concern present?
Yes
REFER TO: Parking Brake (206-05 Parking Brake and Actuation, Diagnosis and Testing).
REFER TO: Parking Brake - Vehicles With: Electric Brake Booster (206-05 Parking Brake and Actuation, Diagnosis and Testing).
No GO to G2
G2 CHECK THE BRAKE CALIPERS AND/OR GUIDE PINS
  • Inspect the brake calipers and guide pins.

Are the brake calipers and guide pins in good condition?
Yes Perform a road test of the vehicle to verify the repair.
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST H: EXCESSIVE BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is forced through the double-walled steel tubing and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. Brake fluid enters the disc brake calipers, forcing the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the friction surface of the brake disc, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is released, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the non-applied position. The brake booster assists the force applied to the pedal by the driver. If excessive force is required on the brake pedal during braking, this indicates a problem in the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake pads
  • ABS/EBD
H1 CHECK THE ABS (ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM) AND HCU (HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT)
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool, perform the ABS self-test.

Is any diagnostic trouble code present?
Yes
REFER TO: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control System (206-09 Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control System, Diagnosis and Testing).
No GO to H2
H2 CHECK THE BRAKE PADS
  • Inspect the brake pads.

Is there any concern present?
Yes INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER TO: Brake Pads (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
REFER TO: Brake Pads (206-04 Rear Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST I: GRINDING NOISE

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

A squeal from the brake system is acceptable under certain conditions, such as a cold start or low speed brake application. Under all other normal driving conditions, the vehicle should stop when braking and the brake system should operate without noise. A knocking noise from the brakes indicates a problem in the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Caliper Guide Pins or Guide Pin Bolts
  • Missing or damaged anti-rattle clips or springs
  • Loose brake disc shield
I1 CHECK THE CALIPER GUIDE PINS OR BOLTS
  • Inspect the caliper guide pins and guide pin bolts.

Is there any concern present?
Yes CHECK the caliper guide pins and guide pin bolts. INSTALL new components as necessary.
No GO to I2.
I2 CHECK FOR CLIPS OR SPRINGS
  • Inspect the anti-rattle clips or springs for missing or damaged components.

Is there any concern present?
Yes INSPECT the brake pads for missing clips or broken springs. INSTALL new components as necessary.
No GO to I3
I3 INSPECT BRAKE DISC SHIELD
  • Inspect the brake disc shield and bolts.

Is there any concern present?
Yes TIGHTEN the brake disc shield bolts to specification. REFER TO: Brake Disc Shield (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
REFER TO: Brake Disc Shield (206-04 Rear Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST J: SQUEAL NOISE

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

During driving there should be no squeal noise except during cold start, at low speed and intermittently. A continuous brake squeal indicates a problem with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake pads
J1 CHECK SQUEAL
  • Perform a road test and confirm the concern.
  • The squeal is:
    • on cold start
    • at low speed
    • intermittent

Is the squeal noise after cold start, at low speed or intermittent?
Yes This condition is acceptable. Caused by moisture, cold, low temperature of the brake pads, snow, dirt, etc.
No GO to J2
J2 CHECK SQUEAL - CONTINUOUS
  • Perform a road test and confirm the concern.

Does the squeal occur continuously?
Yes Replace the brake pads.
REFER TO: Brake Pads (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
REFER TO: Brake Pads (206-04 Rear Disc Brake, Removal and Installation).
No The system is currently operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST K: GROAN NOISE - OCCURS AT LOW SPEEDS WITH LIGHT BRAKE APPLICATION (CREEP)

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

Some brake squeal is acceptable under certain conditions, such as cold start or low speed brake application. Under all other normal driving conditions the vehicle should stop when braking and the brake system should operate without noise. A groaning noise from the brake system at low vehicle speed or light brake pedal application indicates a concern with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake pads
K1 CHECK GROAN NOISE
  • The ignition is on.
  • Perform a road test, apply the brakes lightly at low speed and check for the groan noise.

Is any groan heard at low speeds with the brake applied lightly?
Yes Acceptable condition. The groan noise will not occur continuously.
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.
PINPOINT TEST L: SCRAPE/GROAN NOISE - CONTINUOUS

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

Some brake squeal is acceptable under certain conditions, such as cold start or low speed brake application. Under all other normal driving conditions the vehicle should stop when braking and the brake system should operate without noise. Continuous scraping or groaning noise from the brake system during braking indicates a concern with the brake system.

Possible Sources

  • Brake pads
  • Brake Disc
L1 CHECK GROAN NOISE
  • The ignition is on.
  • Perform a road test, apply the brakes and check for the groan noise.

Is the groan noise constant?
Yes INSPECT the brake pads, brake discs and mounting hardware for damage. CHECK that brake components meet specifications. INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER TO: Front Disc Brake (206-03 Front Disc Brake, Diagnosis and Testing).
REFER TO: Rear Disc Brake (206-04 Rear Disc Brake, Diagnosis and Testing).
No Repair is complete. The system is now operating correctly.

Test yourself

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