Choosing to install a new set of pads should be the last option when trying to solve a noise complaint. Most of the time (if you used a decent set of pads), the pad are not to blame it is the components or installation procedures. Returning pads is getting more and more difficult. Some friction suppliers […]
I ran across this tech article on a BMW enthusiast website. Good article, until I saw this picture: If you apply any friction modifying substance, like oil or anti-seize, to the wheel stud threads, it is going to change the measured torque values. With less friction on the threads, the torque values increase. […]
If you’re seeing an increasing number of noisy brake pads that require replacement before they reach the middle of their duty cycle, the root cause may be lift (partial delamination) of either the friction material or shim from the backing plate. We all know that brakes are subject to significant wear and tear during normal […]
Justin from All Wheel Drive Auto made an interesting video on Subaru brake caliper corrosion and brake jobs where new calipers are installed. […]
Mechanical issues with the ABS HCU are rare, but they can happen. Valve seats and solenoid valves can stick or remain open due to contaminated brake fluid contains rust and sediment. Contaminants may also become trapped in the ABS modulator and valves. Debris can become stuck or not seat proper due to debris, corrosion or […]
I have been working on a lot for cars with ABS lately with wheel speed sensor (WSS) problem. Codes “erratic” signals from wheel speed sensors seem to be a lot more common. Looking at the data stream, the signal is flat with just a little noise. About a decade ago, the main culprit of wheel […]
Often called the “Taliban Taxi” the Toyota pickup has gained a reputation for ruggedness around the world. But the one area that is prone to damage is the valve and linkage that controls rear brake pressures. The load compensating valve that attaches to the rear axle and body and varies the pressure according to […]
A customer may complain of a grinding, thumping or groaning noise coming from the rear brakes. This occurs during the first several stops after the vehicle has been parked overnight. Under normal braking, corrosion from the disc surface is not quickly removed, allowing for a temporary grinding or thumping noise. A new brake pad is […]
Over the past three months, there has been a buzz about a new type of rotor from GM. GM’s team of brake experts and suppliers put a batch of rotors on a lot of Buick and Cadillac models in 2008 to test out if they had truly changed how rotors perform. They succeeded. This new […]