Symptom Chart - Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

2008 Lincoln Navigator RWDSECTION Symptom Chart - Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)
NOTE: Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) symptoms should be identified using the diagnostic tools that are available. For a list of these tools, an explanation of their uses and a glossary of common terms, refer to NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS article. Since it is possible any one of multiple systems may be the cause of a symptom, it may be necessary to use a process of elimination type of diagnostic approach to pinpoint the responsible system. If this is not the causal system for the symptom, refer back to NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS article for the next likely system and continue diagnosis.
Symptom Chart - Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

Condition Possible Sources Action
  • Vibration when the brakes are applied
  • Tires
  • CORRECT any wheel and tire concern before diagnosing the brake or suspension systems. REFER to WHEELS AND TIRES article to diagnose the tires.
 
  • Uneven brake pad wear
  • Brake disc pad transfer
  • Uneven brake disc wear
  • Suspension components
  • Brake vibration/shudder - occurs when the brake pedal is released
  • Brake caliper guide pins
 
  • Brake drag
  • Rattling noise
  • Caliper mounting bolts loose
  • CHECK the caliper bolts. TIGHTEN to specifications. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE article for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE article for rear disc brakes.
 
  • Damaged or worn caliper guide pins or bolts
  • CHECK the caliper guide pins and bolts for correct operation. REFER to Brake Caliper Guide Pins . INSTALL new components as necessary.
 
  • Missing or damaged anti-rattle clips or springs
  • CHECK the brake pads for missing clips or broken springs. INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE article for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE article for rear disc brakes.
 
  • Loose brake disc shield
  • TIGHTEN the brake disc shield bolts to specification. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE article for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE article for rear disc brakes.
  • Clicking noise - with brakes applied with ABS brakes
  • ABS hydraulic control unit
  • Acceptable condition during an ABS event.
  • Squealing noise - occurs on first (morning) brake application
  • Brake pads
  • Acceptable condition. Caused by humidity and low brake pad temperature.
  • Squealing noise - a continuous squeal
  • Brake pads worn below minimum thickness
  • INSPECT brake pads for excessive wear, taper wear or uneven wear. VERIFY brake pads are within minimum specifications. REFER to Brake Pads .
  • Squealing noise - an intermittent squeal brought on by cold, heat, water, mud or snow
  • Brake pads
  • Acceptable condition. Caused by humidity and low brake pad temperature.
  • Groaning noise - occurs at low speeds with brake lightly applied (creeping)
  • Brake pads
  • Acceptable condition. Caused by humidity and low brake pad temperature.
  • Grinding noise - continuous
  • Brake pads worn below minimum thickness
  • INSPECT the brake pads, brake discs and attaching hardware for damage. VERIFY brake components are within specifications. REFER to SPECIFICATIONS .
  • Moaning noise
  • Brake pads contaminated with grease or oil
  • INSPECT the brake pads for contamination. REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE article for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE article for rear disc brakes.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.