Popping noise coming from rear brake drum

MARCELL123

MEMBER
2003 FORD FOCUS
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
175,368 MILES

About a week ago I noticed a grinding noise coming from my tire while I was driving. Crazy thing was when I hit the brakes it stopped so i'm sure the brakes aren't the problem. Then, about 2 days ago I drove to store as well as the grinding noise I heard like a popping noise as the tire turned. I was told it could be wheel or hub bearings. I'm no mechanic so i'm not sure but I need to know so I can get it fixed. Someone please help!

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

I suspect the grinding noise and the popping noise was the brakes. What happens is when you press the brakes they no longer drag but are fully applied so it dampens this noise.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/vehicle-grinding-noise

The popping noise most likely was the shoe getting caught on the drum and it popped.

I would suggest removing and at least inspecting the rear brakes.

Here is a guide for this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-rear-brake-shoes-and-drums

Plus below is the process from the manual. Please let us know if you have other questions and what happens when you inspect them. Thanks

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