Brake fluid loss.

Ka's, Fiesta's and Puma's can suffer from a loss of brake fluid via the rear wheel cylinders. The can sometimes be cured by tightening the rear flexi hoses to the correct torque of 21.5 Nm or if that does not completely cure the problem then new hoses and cylinders should be fitted.

Brake judder

This is very common on all models and is usually cured by replacing the pads and discs. In stubborn cases it may be necessary to replace the hubs as well. Check the run out of the hubs with a DTI gauge. Remember with brake judders if you can feel it through the steering wheel it is normally down to the front brake but if you can feel it through the pedal it is down to the rear brakes.

ABS light on or pulsating pedal when braking slowly (Sierra / Granada)

The main causes of these symptoms are the ABS wheel sensors. These are very easy to check. Disconnect the ABS module, it is in the nearside of the  dash,  and with a multimeter set on ohms check for an open circuit between the following pins:- 4 and 22, 5 and 23, 6 and 24, and 7 and 25. If one or more is an open circuit there is the problem. Alternatively, with the multimeter set on AC volts at a scale of 2 volts, drive the car and with the aid of a helper check the AC voltage at the above pairs of pins. The voltages should all read the same for a given speed.

Seized Callipers

It is possible that when the front pads are worn quite low for the calliper pistons extend so far out that the piston dust cover becomes detached. Should this occur it is imperative that the boot is refitted otherwise moisture will eventually corrode the piston. The easiest way to do this is to release the calliper, pump the piston out of the calliper, fit the dust cover into the calliper and then slide the piston through the dust cover and into the calliper. If in any doubt about the condition of any of the components either replace them or have them professionally check out.

Ka front brake pipes

The front flexi brake pipes may come adrift. This is a known concern and a recall is active to cure this problem, all affected vehicles have been identified and owners will or have been contacted. If in any doubt contact your Ford dealer. The front flexible brake hoses may come adrift from their fixings on the front leg, the hoses may come in contact with the tyre and wear. The recall comprises checking, and replacing the hose if necessary, and then clamping the hose to the fixing with a cable tie.

Droning noise from rear

It is quite common for rear wheel bearing to fail at a reasonably low mileage. Whenever working on the rear brakes it is essential the the drums are removed via the 4 bolts at the rear of the back plate and not the main center hub nut as this can cause premature failure of the bearing.

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