2002 front brake issue...

Hello,

2002 Ford Focus LX

Cousin told me there was noise on front left, so I thought wheel bearing. Took for a ride and it wasn't that. When I pressed on the brake, it went away therefore left front brake issue. Pulled wheel off and saw a rub streak on the front side of caliper. It must be hitting the inside of the wheel at speeds of 45 and lower, don't hear it at faster speeds. Checked over everything, looked fine. The outer pad has a thin metal brace that holds it to the caliper and I assume the portion facing the driver is supposed to be positioned behind the caliper bracket in order to hold that side of the caliper close to the caliper bracket. It wasn't and there was a gap between the caliper and caliper bracket. After slightly prying brake pad brace to hold on to the caliper bracket, the gap was taken care of and I thought that solved it. It was still making noise, but a little less.

Does anyone have any issues with the front part of the caliper contacting the inner front wheel? Also, do the caliper bolts have bushings that need to be replaced often so the caliper doesn't move so freely? The bolted on caliper moves back and forth about 1/4 inch or more, seems too loose to me.

Any similar issues, input welcomed.

It is too loose. Replace the caliper.

Thanks for the reply. Can you elaborate on why it is loose? Has it been an issue with these? Are the bushings replaceable on the caliper bolts or do you have to have a new caliper?

Mike

Installed new bushings. The clips on the pads have me wondering if they are on right. But got it all together and it seems well. We'll see.