Ford Transit-150 Shakes When Braking

Common Causes of Brake Shaking in Your Ford Transit-150 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
55% chance it's the
Brake Rotor
0%
20% chance it's the
Brake Pad
0%
10% chance it's the
Old Brake Fluid
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Ford Transit-150 shakes when braking are bad brake rotors, bad brake pads, or a bad wheel bearing.
  • Brake Rotor: A warped or worn brake rotor can cause vibrations during braking and reduced stopping power.
  • Brake Pad: A worn or damaged brake pad can lead to reduced braking efficiency and increased stopping distances.
  • Old Brake Fluid: Old brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, leading to reduced braking performance and potential corrosion within the brake system.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

Troubleshooting Shaking When Braking in a Ford Transit-150

When experiencing shaking while braking in your Ford Transit-150, start by inspecting the brake pads and rotors, as these are often the most common culprits. Look for signs of wear or uneven surfaces on the rotors, which can indicate warping. If the pads appear thin or unevenly worn, replacing them may resolve the issue. Next, check the suspension components, including control arms and bushings, for any looseness or damage, as these can also contribute to vibrations during braking. If the initial checks do not reveal any issues, examine the brake calipers for any signs of damage or malfunction, as a sticking caliper can lead to uneven braking and shaking. Finally, if all else fails, consider having the rotors resurfaced or replaced, as warped rotors can significantly impact braking performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the source of the shaking, ensuring a safer driving experience.

What Causes Shaking When Braking in a Ford Transit-150?

When your Ford Transit-150 exhibits shaking during braking, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers should be aware of. One of the primary culprits is worn brake rotors, which can create an uneven surface that disrupts the smooth operation of the braking system. This unevenness causes the brake pads to grip inconsistently, leading to vibrations felt through the steering wheel. Additionally, issues with the front caliper slide pins can contribute to this problem; if these pins are sticking or frozen, they prevent the calipers from moving freely, resulting in a pulsing sensation when braking. Furthermore, non-uniform thickness in the front brake discs can exacerbate the shaking, as can over-tightened lug nuts that distort the wheel and disc alignment. By understanding these potential failure modes, you can better diagnose the source of the shaking and take appropriate steps to ensure your vehicle's braking system operates smoothly and safely.

Why is My Ford Transit-150 Shaking When I Brake?

When your Ford Transit-150 shakes while braking, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this symptom can lead to more severe problems, such as compromised braking performance, which poses a significant safety risk not only to you but also to other road users. Worn brake rotors, for instance, can lead to uneven wear on brake pads, resulting in longer stopping distances and increased likelihood of accidents. Additionally, loose wheel bearings can cause further mechanical damage if left unchecked, potentially leading to costly repairs down the line. If you’ve recently installed new tires, their initial instability can also contribute to the shaking, but it’s essential to monitor this closely. By diagnosing and resolving the cause of the vibration early on, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.

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