lindy

We have an f-150 2002 fx4 crew cab p/u. whenever you have to brake, the steering wheel shakes back and forth and the front end shakes as well. everything is fine until you have to use the brakes. i have heard that ford brakes on the trucks are not very good? What would the issue be here? any help would be greatly appreciated.

Crabby

The symptoms you describe point to warped brake rotors as the most likely problem. That is a common problem, and comes from overheating the brakes/rotors. Overheating can be caused by heavy braking required when towing, "riding" the brake pedal so that there is excessive friction constantly, worn brake pads causing metal to metal contact, calipers may be "sticking" causing constant excessive contact of pads and rotors, etc.

If the warp is slight, the fix may be as easy as having the brake rotors machined, and pads replaced. If the problem is caliper related, the repair could be much more extensive.

If you are not mechanically inclined, take your truck to a good brake shop ...

kaboom10

Best bet is to check the tie rod ends and idler arm if it's shaking that bad. If that's not it then go for the rotors. When these wafer thin stock rotors get hot and you get them wet they warp big time. Go get replacements from your local auto parts store. They're better than what the factory uses. I went to a steel set of rotors all the way around. Bet they're the last ones I buy.

lindy

thanks for your replies about the brakes. any idea on what rotors cost if they need to be replaced?

kaboom10

If I recall right it's like $46 ea but do an online search for stock rotors first or call your auto parts. I got the steel ones for $425 but they won't warp or give me pad fade.

Crabby

try doing a search here:
While we find your parts, please enter your ZIP Code at PartsAmerica.com

That will give you a price range of Bendix performance brake rotors