2005 Ford Freestar intermitten whining noise above 15 mph

2005 FORD FREESTAR
50,560 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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DAN_KRIIST5
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We have noticed a high pitched whining sound coming from the right tire area. Our local mechanic has heard the sound, looked at the wheel assembly and has not noticed any abnormal wear in the hub or brakes. This noise goes away around corners and under 15 mph. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Mar 27, 2009 at 6:47 AM
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MERLIN2021
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Only thing that I can think of is the backing plate/dust shiel behind the rotor may be too close to the rotor, when it's cool check for this condition, and pull it away from the rotor.
Mar 28, 2009 at 6:23 AM
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DAN_KRIIST5
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We have taken the entire wheel assembly apart, down to the axle, cleaned thoroughly and still making the noise. Could the issue be related to something else, ie vaccum leak, transmission, radiator fans?

thanks.
Mar 28, 2009 at 6:46 AM
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MERLIN2021
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With a transverse mounted engine, check the serp belt and tensioner pulley, I will look for tech bullitens.
Mar 28, 2009 at 7:18 AM
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MERLIN2021
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Tech bulliten on front brakes found, read here! FRONT BRAKE SQUEAL/SQUEAK NOISE - VEHICLES BUILT 8/1/2003 THROUGH 5/30/2005 TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN Reference Number(s): 05-14-1,  Date of Issue:   July 25, 2005 Related Ref Number(s): 05-14-1 ARTICLE BEGINNING DESCRIPTION FRONT BRAKE SQUEAL/SQUEAK NOISE - VEHICLES BUILT 8/1/2003 THROUGH 5/30/2005 ISSUE Some 2004-2005 Freestar/Monterey vehicles built 8/1/2003 through 5/30/2005, may exhibit a front brake squeal/squeak that occurs continuously. ACTION Replace the front brake pad linings with a new Service Kit. Refer to the Instruction Sheet in the Kit. PARTS INFORMATION FORD: 2004-2005 Freestar MERCURY: 2004-2005 Monterey NOTE: THIS TSB DOES NOT APPLY TO NORMAL BRAKE SQUEAL/SQUEAK CONDITIONS THAT OCCUR ON FIRST (MORNING) BRAKE APPLICATION, AND/OR INTERMITTENT SQUEAL INDUCED BY COLD, HEAT, WATER, MUD AND SNOW CONDITIONS. Page 1 of 2 FRONT BRAKE SQUEAL/SQUEAK NOISE - VEHICLES BUILT 8/1/2003 THROUG...


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Mar 28, 2009 at 7:23 AM
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DAN_KRIIST5
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thank you, we will focus on the brake pads, and wait for results then.
Mar 28, 2009 at 7:39 AM
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MERLIN2021
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Let me know how it goes!
Mar 28, 2009 at 7:54 AM
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POOHBEAR72
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I have a 2004 Freestar and it sounded like a tea kettle whistle while driving it would start at about 25 mph and go away if you turned the steering wheel right , but come back as soon as you straightened out. My fix was a hub assembly on the left side. Yours sounds like the right one . The ford dealer said there was a issue with the 2004 and 2005 hubs getting dry and making that noise.
May 16, 2026 at 9:50 PM
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STRAILER
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Yep, good call POOHBEAR72!
May 17, 2026 at 4:29 PM