Visual Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lincoln Navigator and 2002 Ford Expedition. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

VISUAL INSPECTION CHART (BRAKE COMPONENTS)

Mechanical	Electrical
Brake master cylinder Brake caliper piston Brake discs Wheel bearings Brake pads Power brake booster Brake pedal linkage Booster vacuum hose Tires Foreign material	Parking brake switch Damaged or corroded wiring harness Brake master cylinder fluid level switch

For low or spongy brake pedal concerns:

check and, if necessary, refill the brake master cylinder reservoir
bleed the brake system and retest the brake pedal feel.
if the brake pedal is still low or spongy, check the wheel bearings. For additional information, refer to WHEEL BEARING (4x2 vehicles) or WHEEL BEARING (4x4 vehicles) for front wheel bearings, and to REAR DRIVE AXLE/DIFFERENTIAL - FORD 8.8-INCH GEAR or REAR DRIVE AXLE/DIFFERENTIAL - FORD 9.75-INCH GEAR for rear wheel bearings.

For a slow or incomplete brake pedal return concern:

inspect for binding, damage, correct installation or interference at the brake pedal.
check the power brake booster for binding, damage and correct installation.