Low Speed Rubbing Noise 2019 F-150

[@lucasrudy2892]

Had the same issue on my 2015 F150 and it was the 4wd actuator. Not a terrible replacement, but annoying because it was a plastic ring that was broken engaging and disengaging 4wd.

[@andynewman1320]

Sounds exactly like my situation (2013 Lariat 4x4 5.0). Noise is rather obviously coming from the front drivers side... at least is seems so. I just bought the truck a couple of months ago and the dealer changed all the brake pads as well as the driver's side caliper and brake hose. Unfortunately, the mechanic at the dealer put the inboard pad in the outboard location. That cost me a bit of faith in what they did, so I changed both calipers and hoses on the front, as well as had the rotors turned at O'Rielly's. It definitely needed doing, but didn't make the noise go away. I did an oil changed 2 days ago (because the dealer changed the oil without changing the filter... my granddad would say that's not an oil change). Anyway, while under the vehicle, I took off the front differential fill plug and the oil that oozed out looked like grey paint (maybe a touch of green). I sucked out what I could with my Mytee vac and it seems that that noise went away. It might come back, but it seemed to provide some relief. I will take off the front differential cover when I get more time and clean out the "gunk" real good. I enjoy the truck, but feel that I have to slowly "make it mine" by fixing a bunch of small annoying things. (Never trust a dealer when they tell you that they changed "all the fluids.") I'd love to hear an update if anyone discovered something else. I hope this helps... I hope the noise stays away. It could be a coincidence as some days the noise isn't bad. Sorry for being so longwinded.

[@ErikR1979]

I like long winded as long as it's detailed. And this confirms what I think it is, the front diff. It only happens in mine when it's cold. I think it's partially the 4x4 system not fully disengaging (I was told the vacuum line that changes from 2 to 4WD can fail, or not fully work) and the fluid in the diff being cold. It only happens when I'm slowing down, and below about 35km/h. I'll change your the fluid ASAP and see if that remedies it. Thanks for the ideas and help.

[@andynewman1320]

@@ErikR1979 That is excellent advice. I've heard similar reports about that system. I believe Ford calls it IWE. I need to read up on it some more. Many have reported changing the "check valve" and/or "solenoid" helps fix such issues. I've checked the lines with a vacuum tester... pretty much because it didn't cost anything and when I get a new thing like a vacuum tester I do stuff like that. I think I saw that these cost something in the $30-$50 range each so I might go ahead and do that. I appreciate your input.

[@andynewman1320]

UPDATE: Changing the front differential fluid seemed to help, but didn't make the noise go away. I went ahead and changed the IWE solenoid and check valve and the problem hasn't resurfaced in about 3 days. Hopefully it's gone. A couple of thoughts... (1) since I changed both solenoid ($45) and check valve ($20) at the same time, I don't know which may have been the issue, (2) it's hard to believe that such simple parts can lead to this hard-to-diagnose problem, (3) I don't regret any of the other work done because it needed doing anyway. Best of luck everyone! I'm not an expert on anything, but if my experiences help anyone, then I guess that's a good thing.

[@georged1085]

@@andynewman1320 sadly the solenoid and check valve didn’t do it for me. Next step I guess is to buy a vacuum tester from harbor freight, thinking hub or iwe

[@kevikev2323]

Did you figure out the problem?

[@haithamalmahri3401]

Hello everyone, i have just fixed my car and now this same exact noise is totally gone. It was all about something called ( Limited slip lubricant or modifier ) which should be added to your differential oil in order to reduce and eliminate friction which that noise came from. All the best

[@ErikR1979]

Awesome I'll check with the dealer today.

[@offensivename4893]

@haithanalmahri3401 I just got that done on my 2012 Lariat and it didn’t fix it. My front and rear differential fluid had to be changed anyways. Did it take awhile for the sound to go away?

[@dannyd6886]

@@ErikR1979did you ever figure out the problem mine is doing the same thing

[@ErikR1979]

Ok, I've had a suggestion from Facebook. Rusty spring buckets and worn isolators. He claims to have had the same sounds, and it happened when cold. Maybe that will solve our problems. I'll get that checked when I can. Good luck everyone.

[@shelbyville515]

Any luck with the new suggestion?

[@offensivename4893]

I think it has to do with TSB 22-2219. It affects F150s with the 4AWD

[@TrustGodFearNothing]

You figure it out?

[@ChristopherOPope]

My 2017 F 150 is doing the same thing..from the comments I gather one or two issues 1. Differential oil/lubricant 2. 4x4 actuator

[@briangaarder3150]

Sounds like my 2016 lariat. Mine is most noticeable at 5-15 mph. Switching from 2WD to 4wd doesnt make a difference. I’ve noticed the noise stops when I make a left or right turn and comes back as I straighten the wheel. Had this on and off for 2 years and it seems like it is worst in spring and fall. It is not a warped rotor or cupped tire. Have had brakes done and tires rotated. It is just maddening!

[@ErikR1979]

That sounds like a wheel bearing to me. If it stops when you turn the wheel that's an old sign of a worn wheel bearing. I'd start there if I were you. The sound I'm describing doesn't stop for any reason except the wheels have stopped spinning.

[@jonathanf9338]

I have the exact same symptoms. Just had one mechanic ride with me and his thought was wheel bearing. Going to get some more opinions. Will update if I find a resolution.

[@shutupandtakethisjab]

Same rubbing sound passenger front-ish or center somewhere. 2003 expedition but I changed my bearings and rebuilt the entire suspension.

[@jonathanf9338]

I took my vehicle to a shop and had them inspect the wheel bearings. They confirmed they were fine, they also checked the 4WD IWD system and it checked out fine. Next, they looked at the front differential. They found loose pinion bearings. They replaced the front diff with a rebuilt model and the noise is gone. I have the old diff and will be tearing it apart so I can see the worn bearings.

[@iceyfresh130]

Mine is doing the same thing. First I thought bearing but it only happens when I turn so not sure. I’ve read some things about the IWE (integrated wheel end) which is the system that engages the 4WD. There a couple of pretty cheap parts you can replace that might fix it or not could be the hub itself. I’d do some research on it. I have solved mine just yet

[@offensivename4893]

It has to do with TSB 22-2219 and it affects F150s with the 4AWD. I just followed TSB and it hasn’t made a noise for a month or so.

[@norbertogonzalez7555]

Any luck?

[@brazeagle]

Same here on my 2022 TREMOR F150. In the dealership now for assessment. Will update.

[@dvaldez4419]

Any updates?

[@gfam3673]

any updates? have a similar one on my 2016 lariat

[@dvaldez4419]

I took mine to the dealer a handful of times…they seem to believe this is a non issue and normal. They have not heard the sound. They tested the IWE system and found the valve was leaking…we will see if this fixes the problem.

[@ajcc9817]

Did it fix the issue

[@ajcc9817]

​@@dvaldez4419did it fix the issue

[@keneanyacob4261]

FYI it could be your exaust rubbing against drive shaft if you got a exaust setup done to your car before you lowered it

[@ErikR1979]

Uhhhh it's an F-150. It hasn't been lowered. And the exhaust is stock. I've checked to see if anything external is rubbing, but all clearances in that area are good. I appreciate the idea, but it's not from the exhaust.

[@carsoncunningham7993]

Mine does the exact same thing. Only when it is cold and driving at low speed.

[@ErikR1979]

That's mine as well. Cold and slow... But it's slowly happening at warmer and warmer temperatures.

[@carsoncunningham7993]

@@ErikR1979 mine as well.

[@liljoshyy8536]

Not a ford but my 03 ram does the same thing, as a drive the sound goes away. Im at a total loss here.

[@ErikR1979]

Funny you should mention that, it's 20 degrees Celsius here today, and I'm slowly starting to notice it. I have also noticed that it would happen at warmer and warmer temperatures as well.

[@carsoncunningham7993]

@@ErikR1979recently Had the IWE serviced on my truck. Wondering if that may have fixed the issue.

[@bankamilliproductions6341]

Wow looks like we’re all in the same boat my f150-2010 just started doing this yesterday

[@nickwood7308]

What is it lol our fords been doing this dont want to ruin the vehicle.

[@bankamilliproductions6341]

@@nickwood7308 unfortunately it’s the differential, it needs to fixed or replaced sooner than later. Find a good local trans shop because the dealer will replace the whole rear axle for a arm and a leg….find out your axle length and gear ratio to save the hassle about “part prices”

[@chizzoboy]

Mine started doing this after installing new brake pads.. it's a low rubbing noise it clears after I hit 15 mph. I think the plastic hubs get weak with the vibration from the air gun they Use to put the wheels on. It's just a suggestion. I greased the sliders and greased the pads where they meet the sliders.

[@ErikR1979]

Good call, I'll check that and grease them. Mine has been doing it since day one with stock brakes, but it got worse after replacing the pads and rotors, honestly I thought it was a rock or something caught in the pads. I appreciate any suggestions. Thanks for your help.

[@jrk1990]

I just got my car last month (2024 xlt PowerBoost) I hear the same sound from the same spot but only when I’m accelerating hitting 65+…. I’m thinking I just got this truck, what the hell could it be

[@petedavila1405]

Shit my king ranch makes that noise too. Everything was good until they decided to do a tire rotation but I’m not exactly what’s wrong

[@ErikR1979]

They pulled out the IWE and it worked properly, he said it looked brand new. So I have no clue what it is now. It only happens when the temperature is well below freezing.

[@jenkins054]

Mine just started doing this rubbing sound today but only when I turn sharply to the left or right. Differential was changed in Sept 2023, IWE was changed out in December 2023. I thought it was the CV joint but i don’t think that’s it. 2013 Ford F150 Limited 4x4.

[@TrustGodFearNothing]

What sound was your differential making?

[@offensivename4893]

It has to do with TSB 22-2219 and it affects F150s with the 4AWD. I just followed TSB and it hasn’t made a noise for a month or so.

[@user-vj2bj1id2u]

I found the problem if no one did .. mine was the 4x4 actutor shop said they werent bad and they couldnt figuge it out so i just replaced it anyways and it didnt look bad but it fixed the noise by putting the new one in and mine was super loud

[@Omegazstar]

Someone temporally fixed theirs by replacing the differential oil. Maybe it was just the oil change? Still fixed?

[@haithamalmahri3401]

I took my car today to the Mechanical guy, he told me it might be the rear differential. 💔 in my town no one can handle this yet.

[@youflatbro7498]

Sounds like your flux capacitor went out. You'll have to go back to 1985 to get a new one.

[@ErikR1979]

I thought something was wrong with it.... Nothing happened when I hit 88mph

[@youflatbro7498]

@@ErikR1979 Yeah, if there is zero reaction at 88mph, you need to replace it.

[@mario237moreno]

I have the same noise on my 2020 gmc sierra it’s so aggravating I can’t figure out where it’s coming from.

[@jordanpavlic383]

Bought a 2016 F150 Lariat not even a week ago and it just started making this noise today, I’m beyond done with Fords, the day I took the truck off the lot it threw a CEL for a misfire on cyl 2 and 4

[@offensivename4893]

It has to do with TSB 22-2219 and it affects F150s with the 4AWD. I just followed TSB and it hasn’t made a noise for a month or so.

[@skys236]

Has anyone had any luck?? My Hyundai accent is making this exact noise

[@user-vj2bj1id2u]

Yeah well I just replaced my hub assembly hoping it was that nope 260 bucks down the drain

[@ThatBoyMichael1]

What was it?

[@Omegazstar]

Yes please what was it??

[@coachbeam3600]

Any updates on this? Mine started doing this😐

[@ErikR1979]

I had something done to mine. I'm going to have to find the work order. He plugged some vent holes that weren't necessary (I'm kinda sure that's what it was). But then he also reprogrammed the computer to wait until warm to fully pull vacuum on the IWE. He thinks it's not pulling vacuum when cold, and it doesn't ever properly make a seal then, so if the truck waits until warm, it should seal properly. I'm waiting for real cold weather to test this, but so far so good.

[@coachbeam3600]

@@ErikR1979 thanks!

[@offensivename4893]

It has to do with TSB 22-2219 and it affects F150s with the 4AWD. I just did the same thing and it hasn’t made a noise yet.

[@TrustGodFearNothing]

​@@offensivename4893how did you do it?

[@offensivename4893]

@@TrustGodFearNothing look up the TSB I listed and all I did was remove that vacuum line and plugged both holes. There is a diagram that ford put out. Super easy!

[@alexflores5426]

Any news? I have this same issue. It just started happening a few days ago. happens when the truck is cold and goes away as I drive it more.

[@offensivename4893]

It has to do with TSB 22-2219 and it affects F150s with the 4AWD. I just followed TSB and it hasn’t made a noise for a month or so.

[@kolbyturmel7654]

I’ve gotten a 2019 eco boost and have the same thing starting it’s booked into the dealership for diagnostic at the end of the week but has anyone actually successfully fixed this?

[@isith1]

what did you find out at the dealership?

[@offensivename4893]

I fixed mine after about 6 months. It has to do with TSB 22-2219 and it affects F150s with the 4AWD. I just followed TSB and it hasn’t made a noise for a month or so.

[@jeffreyentz4271]

Front differential

[@ErikR1979]

Hmmm but it's only on one side, and sound is coming from the driver wheel area.

[@pat_peter]

2017 F 150 Lariat had this issue for almost 2 yrs on and off. Mechanic said it's the 4WDactuator paid big bucks to fix it last year, it's back again after the cold weather start. Sick of it. Will this lead to any other issue?

[@offensivename4893]

I fixed mine! It has to do with TSB 22-2219 and it affects F150s with the 4AWD. I just followed TSB and it hasn’t made a noise for a month or so.

[@pat_peter]

@@offensivename4893 I've switched it to 4 auto, drives perfect no sound now.

[@dlunsford1980]

Mine does this as well. Any luck figuring it out?

[@ErikR1979]

I had new brakes put on recently.... It only happened below -10 degrees Celsius. I think one of the brake sliders was freezing just enough to make the pad rub.

[@dlunsford1980]

@@ErikR1979 i was looking at doing new front rotors and pads as my front rotors are are pretty grooved. Maybe I'll get lucky and that'll fix it.

[@ErikR1979]

@@dlunsford1980 it started as a vibration as I turned slight right (felt sort of like I was driving on a rumble strip). Put new pads and rotors on, that stopped, but then this started. I'm going to take it in and have them double check it. It was definitely something to do with the brakes, though at first I thought it was a wheel bearing.

[@dlunsford1980]

Mine does it regardless of temperature and it's a slight left instead of right. It seems to completely go away above 20 miles an hour and it's most noticeable driving slowly through a parking lot. It's an odd issue for sure.

[@ErikR1979]

@@dlunsford1980 that sounds like mine. Hopefully a brake job fixes it.

[@jordanb8909]

Hello did you ever get this figured out?

[@ErikR1979]

I don't exactly remember but they plugged some holes in the IWE, he said they weren't necessary. As well as a reprogram of the computer to delay the truck shifting into 2wd after starting to ensure its warmer. It's lessened it significantly, so he's on the right track... If say it's almost completely fixed, but I get a mild version of it still rarely.

[@dipsetfan678]

Wheel alignment maybe

[@rosshenderson5209]

@erikr1979 DId you ever figure out what the problem was? Sounds similar to what my 2013 is doing but have tried everything to figure it out

[@ErikR1979]

Sorry, no luck yet. Mine is very random and only when it's very cold (below freezing out), so getting a mechanic to hear it is nearly impossible.

[@rosshenderson5209]

@@ErikR1979 Yeah unfortunately I haven't figured mine out either. I want to say IWE but every test I run checks out. Hard to recreate it.

[@andrewshah10]

Man same here! Tested the iwe and lines, everything checked out fine. I have no clue what this problem is, it only happens when it’s cold.

[@andrewshah10]

@@ErikR1979 do you think it’s the front differential ?

[@ErikR1979]

@@andrewshah10 definitely possible. But it sounds like one side of the truck, not central, like I would expect a noise from the diff.

[@matthewtullos4113]

End up getting any answers? I’m running into the same issue

[@ErikR1979]

Still nothing. They've taken apart everything that could be grinding, and all the parts look brand new. No wear that grinding would cause. No one has a clue what it is.

[@matthewtullos4113]

@@ErikR1979 Godspeed soldier. Thanks for the quick reply. I guess I’m starting my journey on figuring out this noise. If I learn anything new, I’ll let you know

[@matthewtullos4113]

@@ErikR1979by the way, you don’t happen to hear it coming from your back right tire do you?

[@ErikR1979]

@@matthewtullos4113 no, only the front driver side.

[@B1gD1ckBandit]

Having the same issue in my 2016

[@user-vj2bj1id2u]

Did anyone figure it out mine does the same

[@ErikR1979]

Nope. They tore apart the IWE... Nothing wrong in there. No answers yet. Mine only did it in cold weather, but it's doing it randomly in warmer weather now.

[@batesandrew5494]

​@@ErikR1979 im having literally the exact same issue. Everything checks out with the vacuum test so im clueless.

[@ErikR1979]

@@batesandrew5494 yep, mine too. He checked the gears on the IWE, and he said no signs of wear, so it can't be that. They said bearings are fine too.