why does my Alfa Romeo Giulia make a grinding noise when braking

Symptoms

• Grinding noise when applying brakes
• Reduced braking performance
• Vibration felt through the brake pedal
• Warning light on the dashboard (if equipped)
• Increased stopping distance

Diagnostic Steps

1. Inspect the brake pads for wear and damage.
2. Check the brake rotors for scoring or warping.
3. Examine the brake calipers for proper operation and any signs of sticking.
4. Inspect the brake fluid level and quality.
5. Perform a visual check of the brake lines for leaks or damage.

Solution

1. Preparation

• Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, brake cleaner, wire brush.
• Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the wheel to access the brake components.

2. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Sub-steps:
  1. Remove the caliper bolts using a socket wrench.
  2. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and support it using a bungee cord; do not hang it by the brake line.
  3. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
  4. Inspect the brake pads for wear; replace if the friction material is less than 3mm.
  5. Apply brake grease to the backing of the new pads and install them in the caliper bracket.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Sub-steps:
  1. Check the rotor surface for any grooves or significant wear.
  2. If rotors are damaged, remove them by unscrewing the rotor retaining screws (if applicable).
  3. Install new rotors, ensuring they are properly seated.
  4. Torque the screws to the manufacturer’s specifications.

4. Reassemble Brake Components

• Sub-steps:
  1. Reattach the caliper over the new brake pads and rotor.
  2. Torque the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  3. Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.