i recently noticed a squeeking noise coming from the 2 front wheels on my 2001 explorer xlt. i'm confused because it stops when i apply the brakes. can someone help me, and tell me that it won't be expensive.

 

Could be the brake pad indicators. Get it checked out so you don't score the rotors. If you ruin the rotors, it will cost a lot more to fix.

 

do you think it's the brakes because it threw me off when i apply the brakes and the squeeking stops...i thought it worked oppositely.

 

Is it a constant squeal (brakes) or a bouncing squeak like a suspension problem? I have the latter and suspect the ball joints... I'd do it myself but since I don't have a whole weekend to get it done, I'm going to line the pockets of my local Ford Dealer...

 

tapper95...it's a constant squeal i'm getting the rear brakes done tomorrow. hopefully it fixes something because it now comes from all wheels. thanks for the input.

 

Standard Operating Procedure when your pads are almost worn out is the wear indicators on brake pads squeal when the brakes are not engaged and stop when you apply the brakes.

How long between the time that the front started squealing and the back started? Your fronts should wear out much quicker because they handle more of the load when stopping. I've had my 99 Explorer for almost 5 years and 70,000 miles (bought from a Ford dealer so it was in like new condition) and I just replaced the fronts last summer. The backs still have a good amount of pad on them.