why does my Cadillac Escalade make a grinding noise when braking

Symptoms

• Grinding noise when applying brakes
• Vibration in the brake pedal
• Reduced braking efficiency
• Squeaking or squealing noises prior to grinding
• Warning light illuminated on the dashboard (if applicable)

Diagnostic Steps

1. Inspect brake pads for wear and tear using a visual inspection.
2. Check brake rotors for scoring or uneven wear.
3. Examine brake calipers for proper operation and potential sticking.
4. Inspect brake fluid level and condition in the master cylinder reservoir.
5. Use a dial gauge to measure rotor runout for any warping.
6. Scan for any error codes related to the braking system using an OBD-II scanner.

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
• Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Gather necessary safety equipment (gloves, safety glasses).

2. Remove Wheel

• Loosen lug nuts using a lug wrench.
• Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Tools Required: Socket set, brake pad spreader.
• Remove caliper bolts using the appropriate socket.
• Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and suspend it using a bungee cord (do not let it hang by the brake line).
• Remove old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
• Compare the thickness of new pads with old pads to ensure replacement is necessary.
• Install new brake pads into the caliper bracket.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Check rotor surface for scoring or excessive wear.
• If rotors are damaged, remove the caliper bracket and then rotor.
• Install new rotors by aligning them with the hub and securing them with the appropriate bolts.
• Torque the rotor bolts to manufacturer specifications.

5. Reassemble Components

• Reattach the caliper over the new brake pads and rotor.
• Reinstall caliper bolts and torque to manufacturer specifications.
• Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle and then fully tighten lug nuts in a star pattern.

6. Test the Brake System

• Pump the brake pedal several times to seat the new pads.
• Check brake fluid level and top off if necessary.
• Inspect for any leaks around the caliper and lines.