why is my Cadillac Escalade T1XX (2021-Present) making a grinding noise when I brake

Symptoms

• Grinding noise when applying brakes
• Vibration in the brake pedal
• Reduced braking performance
• Brake warning light illuminated
• Unusual wear on brake pads or rotors

Diagnostic Steps

1. Inspect brake pads for wear and tear using a visual inspection.
2. Check brake rotors for signs of scoring or warping.
3. Examine brake calipers for proper operation and signs of sticking.
4. Inspect brake fluid level and condition.
5. Scan for any error codes related to the braking system using an OBD-II scanner.

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather all necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
• Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues while working.

2. Remove Wheel

• Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts using a socket set and take off the wheel to access the braking components.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Inspect Pads: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully slide off the caliper. Inspect brake pads for thickness; replace if worn below manufacturer's minimum specification (usually 3mm).
• Replace Pads: If replacement is needed, compress the caliper piston using a brake caliper tool, install new brake pads, and ensure they are seated properly.

4. Inspect and Replace Rotors (if necessary)

• Inspect Rotors: Check the rotor surface for any grooves or excessive wear. Use a micrometer to measure rotor thickness.
• Replace Rotors: If replacement is necessary, remove the rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws, then slide it off the hub. Install the new rotor and torque the retaining screws to the manufacturer's specifications.

5. Reassemble Components

• Reattach the caliper and torque the caliper bolts to the specified value (typically 20-30 ft-lbs).
• Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically 100-120 ft-lbs).

6. Reconnect Battery and Test

• Reconnect the battery and perform a test of the braking system. Ensure the brakes are functioning correctly without any grinding noise.