1998 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 104

Driving BRAKES Your brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the ''Service Guide'' for scheduled maintenance. Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a performance concern with the vehicle's brake system. In normal operation, automotive brake systems may emit occasional or intermittent squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied. Such noises are usually heard during the first few brake applications in the morning; however, they may be heard at any time while braking and can be aggravated by environmental conditions such as cold, heat, moisture, road dust, salt or mud. If a ''metal-to-metal'', ''continuous grinding'' or ''continuous squeal'' sound is present while braking, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician. Anti-lock brake system (ABS) On vehicles equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a noise from the hydraulic pump motor and pulsation in the pedal may be observed during ABS braking events. Pedal pulsation coupled with noise while braking under panic conditions or on loose gravel, bumps, wet or snowy roads is normal and indicates proper functioning of the vehicle's anti-lock brake system. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder while braking, felt mainly in the steering wheel, the vehicle most likely needs service. The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lock up during brake applications and compensating for this tendency. The front wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied. The accompanying illustration depicts the advantage of an ABS equipped vehicle (on bottom) to a non-ABS equipped vehicle (on top) during hard braking. ABS warning lamp The ABS warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates for about five seconds when starting the vehicle. If an ABS fault is detected, the 104