The rear end dropped can only go about a foot in reverse

2009 FORD FUSION
114,000 MILES • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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VLD7377
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I was reversing and I hear a weird noise and then I could only reverse a foot before the car jolted to a stop. I got out to see and the whole rear end has dropped really low. I need to know what it is that could have happened.
Apr 1, 2021 at 4:52 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

Are you sure the hand brake or emergency brake is not applied? It sounds like it is not released.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/parking-brake-shoe-replacement

I attached pictures and procedures below for the parking brake system.

Roy
Apr 1, 2021 at 5:11 AM
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VLD7377
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The emergency brake doesn’t work in my car currently so I don’t believe that would be it. The brake on the passenger side rear was grinding really bad it was most likely metal on metal and made an awful noise constantly then it did what I described in the first question now the rear end of the car looks like it dropped way down.
Apr 1, 2021 at 8:51 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, then most likely the rear shoes being metal on metal are causing the issue. You will need to replace the shoes and drums.

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

I attached the procedure both in a guide and pictures below for you for the replacement.

Roy

Apr 1, 2021 at 9:20 AM
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VLD7377
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That would cause the whole rear end to drop and the car only being able to reverse a foot before jolting to a stop?
Apr 1, 2021 at 11:35 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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Yes, it loads up the rear suspension and the rear will drop.

Roy
Apr 1, 2021 at 11:41 AM
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STRAILER
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Can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so we can see what's going on? that would be great. You can upload it here with your response.
Apr 1, 2021 at 5:10 PM
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