BRAKE SYSTEMS

If your brakes are squeaking, squealing or grinding it likely is a sign of poor quality, improper fit, or worn pads. Generally, any of these sounds are an indication to change your brake pads or rotors, or another component of the braking system. If you need to have your brake system diagnosed because of these sounds, you can find service near you to have an authorized service shop assess your vehicle.

If you are looking for quiet braking for your vehicle, both GM Genuine Parts OE and ACDelco Gold are designed and tested by GM for noise control. 

For most brake pad installations, these are the general steps to take: 
 
1. Pop the hood and check the brake fluid
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly
3. Prepare to remove brake caliper and brake pads 
4. Remove brake caliper and brake pads
5. Apply brake lubricant
6. Install the disc brake pad retaining spring
7. Install the new brake pads
8. Pump the brakes
9. Refill the brake fluid

For a detailed step-by-step and video instruction on changing brake pads, refer to Brake Pads and Shoes for a video tutorial and written steps. 

If you are inspecting your brake pads, you can inspect through the wheel spokes for the brake pad thickness (minimum 3 mm or 1/8 inch thick) or other wear indicators such as metal wear indicator tabs or grooves made in the pads. If you remove the wheels, you’ll be able to view the pads for thickness, uneven wear, glazing or other damage. 

You can also find service near you to have an authorized service shop assess your vehicle with a Multi-Point Vehicle Inspection to fully assess your brake system.

Brake pads can last 30,000 to 70,000 miles; however multiple factors determine the lifespan of your brake pads. Your driving style and the conditions of the roads you drive on can significantly impact brake pad life. Additionally, the quality of the brake pads used on your vehicle also helps determine the lifespan of your brake pads, typically OE brake pads will outlast aftermarket brake pads.  

For a more accurate answer specific to your vehicle, refer to your Owner’s Manual for maintenance schedules.

For specific guidance on your vehicle, refer to the maintenance schedule in your Owner’s Manual

Brake pads typically need to be replaced when they reach a minimum thickness of 3-4 mm (0.12-0.16 inches). Other signs indicating it’s time to change your brake pads include: 

• Squealing, grinding or other noises coming from braking
• Vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking
• The brake warning indicator light will illuminate if pads are worn

Original Equipment (OE) brake pads set the standard for performance for your vehicle, and are the brake pads installed during production of your vehicle. Typically, OE brake pads offer the best noise control and longevity, but at a premium cost. 
 
Aftermarket brake pads are designed to help meet standard performance of the OE brake pads they are based on but can vary on quality and features. Typically, aftermarket brake pads will be less expensive than their OE counterparts, unless you are shopping for high performance aftermarket brake pads designed for racing or other non-standard uses.  
 
For more information on GM Genuine Parts OE Brake Pads and ACDelco Aftermarket Brake Pads, refer to the breakdown at the top of the page.

Brake pad price ranges based on your vehicle’s needs, the retailer, whether the pads are designed for front or rear use, and the quality of brake pads.

• GM Genuine Parts OE Brake Pads can range from $100 to $300 (per axle set)
• Aftermarket ACDelco Gold Brake Pads can range from $50 to $150 (per axle set) 
• Aftermarket ACDelco Silver Brake Pads can range from $25 to $100 (per axle set)

Please note these prices are an estimated range not including service costs. For pricing on brake pads designed for your vehicle, visit the GM Parts Store.

Brake rotors can last 30,000 to 70,000 miles; however multiple factors determine the lifespan of your brake rotors. Your driving style and the conditions of the roads you drive on can significantly impact brake rotor life. The quality of the brake rotors used on your vehicle also helps determine the lifespan of your brake pads, typically OE brake rotors will outlast aftermarket brake rotors. 
 
Additionally, GM Genuine Parts OE Brake Rotors are Ferritic Nitro-Carurized (FNC), offering extra protection against corrosive threats from water, salt and even acid rain to help extend brake rotor life. ACDelco Gold Brake Rotors offer COOL SHIELD™ zinc coating and protection to help protect brake rotor lifespan. 
 
For a more accurate answer specific to your vehicle, refer to your Owner’s Manual for maintenance schedules.

Often referred to as a “full brake job,” replacing brake pads and rotors can range in cost of $250 to $1,000 per axle. The cost largely depends on: 

• Cost of labor at the chosen shop or dealership
• The make/model of the vehicle
• The quality of parts chosen for the service

For pricing for your vehicle, find service near you and reach out to an authorized service shop to find more specific pricing for your vehicle. 

While it is generally recommended to replace both together, you do not have to.

It is recommended to change both together: 

• Rotors should be replaced if they show signs of warping, grooves or show signs of excessive wear
• Replacing your rotors will help extend the life of your new brake pads and prevent premature wear and safety issues
• Uneven wear in brake rotors can lead to improper braking performance
  

Reach out and find service near you to consult with the experts on your vehicle’s needs. There may even be bundled offers or deals on GM Genuine Parts and ACDelco Brake Pads and Brake Rotors at your local authorized service shop.