Symptom Chart - Brake System

2009 Mercury Milan Premier, 3.0 1, AWDSECTION Symptom Chart - Brake System
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Symptom Chart - Brake System

Condition Possible Sources Action
  • The red brake warning indicator and the yellow ABS warning indicator are illuminated
  • DTCs in the ABS module
  • The red brake warning indicator is always/never on
  • Brake fluid level switch
  • Parking brake switch
  • Wiring, terminals or connectors
  • Instrument cluster
  • Smart junction box (SJB)
  • The brakes pull or drift
  • Tires
  • INSPECT the tires for uneven or excessive wear, and correct inflation. REFER to WHEELS AND TIRES .
 
  • Brake pads
  • INSPECT the brake pads for contamination, uneven taper or excessive wear. REFER to Brake Pads .
 
  • Brake discs
  • INSPECT the brake discs and the hubs for contamination or damage, INSTALL new as necessary.
 
  • Brake calipers and/or guide pins
 
  • Suspension component and/or wheel alignment
  • Brake pedal goes down fast
  • Brake fluid leaks and/or air in the system
  • INSPECT the system for leaks. REPAIR as necessary. FILL the brake master cylinder reservoir. BLEED the system. REFER to Brake System Bleeding .
 
  • Brake master cylinder
 
  • Hydraulic control unit (HCU)
  • The brake pedal eases down slowly
  • Air in the system
 
  • Brake master cylinder
 
  • HCU
  • Brakes lock up under light brake pedal force
  • Brake pads
  • INSPECT the brake pads for uneven taper or excessive wear, REFER to Brake Pads .
 
  • Brake calipers and/or guide pins
 
  • Anti-lock brake control system
  • Excessive/erratic brake pedal travel
  • Brake fluid leaks and/or air in the system
 
  • Brake calipers and/or guide pins
 
  • Brake flexible hose
  • INSPECT the brake flexible hoses for swelling and damage. INSTALL new as necessary. REFER to FRONT DISC BRAKE for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brakes.
 
  • Brake master cylinder
 
  • Brake pads
  • INSPECT the brake pads for taper wear, REFER to Brake Pads .
 
  • Brake pedal
  • INSPECT the brake pedal for binding, obstructions and correct installation. REPAIR as necessary. CHECK the brake pedal fasteners for correct torque. REFER to Specifications in HYDRAULIC BRAKE ACTUATION .
 
  • Anti-lock brake control system
  • Brakes drag
  • Parking brake component
 
  • Brake caliper guide pins
  • INSPECT the caliper guide pins for correct operation. INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to Brake Caliper Guide Pins .
 
  • Disc brake caliper(s)
 
  • Brake booster
 
  • Brake master cylinder
  • Excessive brake pedal effort
  • Insufficient engine vacuum for brake booster operation
 
  • Brake booster manifold vacuum hose
  • VERIFY engine vacuum at the booster. REROUTE, REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary.
 
  • Brake booster
  • VERIFY engine vacuum at the booster. CARRY OUT the Brake Booster Component Tests .
 
  • Brake booster check valve
  • VERIFY engine vacuum at the booster. CARRY OUT the Check Valve Component Tests .
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.