Grinding noise during braking, turning or hitting bumps at slow speeds?

FISHERSMITH

MEMBER
1999 FORD F-150
5.4L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
250,000 MILES

I bought the truck about a year ago with a brand-new engine and transmission. The truck has a 6-inch Fabtech lift installed but is otherwise stock. Grinding only started in the last couple of months and seems to be getting worse over time. Shocks, tires and brakes were all recently replaced to no effect. Upon visual inspection cv axles, bushings and tie rods seem fine but I'm no expert. Not sure what else could be causing the issue. The last shop I took it to a kid that was significantly younger than my truck trying to diagnose the issue and couldn't figure it out. Any suggestions on what to look for? Grinding is loud and metallic, and it sounds rotational.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,128 POSTS

Hi,

It could be a couple of things. First, and don't laugh, check the dust shields behind the brake rotors. If bent or rusted, they can rub the brake rotor and make this type of noise.

If that appears, the next suspect would be a wheel/hub bearing. When you hear the sound, is there anything you can do to make it stop? For example, if you turn one way or the other, does it get louder or softer? If you apply the brakes when you hear the sound, does it change the pitch or volume?

Also, are there any leaks that you see?

If the sound is loud enough to record, please do that and upload it for me to hear. Let me know as much as you can.

Take care,

Joe

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Wednesday, August 24th, 2022 AT 8:43 PM

FISHERSMITH

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks for your reply, Joe, I'll be sure to check those things and add a video as soon as I get a chance. No leaks that I could find, however I did notice that the boot on the upper control arm on the passenger side is pretty much completely shot though I'm not confident that it's the source of the noise. That being said, looking at the state of that one I can only assume that the rest need to be replaced or at the very least regreased as well. When the grinding starts it's pretty constant in volume and very loud, turning one way or the other doesn't seem to make it better or worse and it's the same when braking. Going over bumps is where it's the least loud, but it seems like the sound in dependent on the pitch and roll of the truck.

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Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 7:14 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,128 POSTS

Hi,

If it is related to the speed, something that is turning is causing it. I will watch for a video so I can hear it. Hopefully, I'll recognize the sound.

Take care,

Joe

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Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 7:04 PM