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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
99 Suburban
K2500, New SUV with a brake History
Q: Jim, I’m having some serious brake
problems on our ‘99 Suburban K2500 4x4 with a 7.4L engine. Here’s
the history: The rear axle seals leaked when new. Warranty replaced the
seals and installed new brake linings on both sides of the rear axle.
The front rotors warped fairly early on, and were replaced under warranty.
Also the front brake pads were replaced. The problem is continuing brake
rotor warpage (now ready for second set of new rotors at 33K), and violent
brake action if the linings get the least bit of moisture on them. Is
it possible that the rear linings and front pads are not compatible with
each other, or not compatible with the ABS System?
Your wisdom on this please, I am about out of warranty at 36K and am not
happy with the brake problems we are having.
A: Not
sure about the wisdom part, but I can tell you that brake problems that
you are experiencing on your Suburban are not uncommon. The ALLDATA Information
System shows Service Bulletin # 99-05-24-001A addressing braking concerns
that you are describing. Vehicles affected range from ‘92 to ‘99
Chevrolet, GMC, pick-ups and Suburbans . Also ‘96 to 2000 Chevy and
GMC vans.
The condition
is often described as a brake pull while braking or premature front brake
wear. The fix requires the installation of upgraded front brake pads and
rear brake shoes. Also the brake system’s Combination Valve must
be replaced on Suburbans. This valve regulates brake fluid pressure to
the front and rear brakes. If the valve is not replaced as outlined in
the service bulletin other brake problems can result
Front brakes
that are doing more than their share of the work to stop a vehicle will
overheat and wear rapidly. This greater amount of heat will also take
its toll on the front brake rotors causing them to warp. Also, the rear
brakes should not be acting violet when wet.
One last
note, I did a check at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s
Consumer Complaints Database and found that your vehicle is not alone
with this problem. It may be in your best interest to register your complaint
with NHTSA on the web at www.nhtsa.dot.gov
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