Lincoln MKX Shakes When Braking

Common Causes of Brake Shaking in Your Lincoln MKX and How to Resolve Them for a Smoother Ride

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 Lincoln MKX 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 Lincoln MKX

When experiencing shaking while braking in your Lincoln MKX, start by inspecting the brake rotors, as they are often the primary cause of this issue. Look for signs of warping or uneven wear, which can lead to vibrations during braking. Next, assess the condition of your suspension and steering components; any looseness or wear in these parts can contribute to steering wheel wobble. Additionally, check if your wheels are properly balanced, as unbalanced wheels can cause vibrations at higher speeds, particularly when braking. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider examining the brake system for worn pads or faulty components, as these can also lead to decreased braking performance and shaking. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the root cause of the shaking, ensuring a safer and smoother driving experience. If the problem persists after these checks, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic who specializes in Lincoln vehicles for further diagnosis.

What Causes Shaking When Braking in a Lincoln MKX?

When your Lincoln MKX shakes while braking, it can be both alarming and indicative of underlying issues that need attention. One of the primary culprits is often the brake rotors; if they are warped or unevenly worn, they can cause a pulsating sensation in the brake pedal and vibrations throughout the vehicle. Additionally, worn brake pads can exacerbate this problem, as they may not make consistent contact with the rotors. Another factor to consider is the condition of the wheel bearings; if they are damaged, they can lead to instability and shaking during braking. It's also important to inspect the tires, as worn or improperly balanced tires can contribute to front-end vibrations. Lastly, issues such as misfiring cylinders or bad motor mounts can cause the vehicle to shake when stopped, further complicating the diagnosis. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can better assess their Lincoln MKX and take the necessary steps to address the shaking when braking.

Why is My Lincoln MKX Shaking When I Brake?

Experiencing shaking in your Lincoln MKX while braking is not just an inconvenience; it can signal serious underlying issues that require immediate attention. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to compromised safety on the road, as the vibrations often indicate problems with critical components like the brake rotors or pads. Warped rotors can cause uneven braking, resulting in a pulsating brake pedal and diminished control over your vehicle. Additionally, if the shaking is felt through the steering wheel, it may suggest that the brake system is not functioning optimally, which could lead to longer stopping distances and increased risk of accidents. Beyond safety concerns, neglecting these issues can lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the line, such as damage to the wheel bearings or suspension components. Therefore, if you notice any shaking when braking, it is crucial to have your Lincoln MKX inspected by a professional mechanic promptly to diagnose the problem and ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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