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2022 TLX A-Spec - Persistent Brake Squeal and Vibration

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 26, 3:58 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Acura TLX A-Spec

I bought a new 2022 Acura TLX A-Spec about a year and a half ago, and it only has around 25,000 miles on it. For the past few months, I've been experiencing a persistent high-pitched squeal when braking, especially at lower speeds. It's really embarrassing.

Recently, I've also started to feel a slight vibration through the pedal when braking, which wasn't there before. I thought brakes should last longer than this on a relatively new car. Is this normal for the TLX A-Spec, or is something wrong?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 26, 3:58 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Brake squeal and vibration on a 2022 Acura TLX A-Spec with 25,000 miles are definitely not ideal, though some level of squeal can be normal under specific conditions. The added vibration, however, is a stronger indicator of an issue.

Here are the common causes:

  1. Brake Pad Wear Indicators: Most brake pads have a small metal tab that scrapes against the rotor when the pads are worn down to a certain point, creating a high-pitched squeal. This is a primary suspect for the squeal.
  2. Rotor Warping/Runout: The vibration you feel through the pedal is almost always a sign of warped or unevenly worn brake rotors. When the rotor surface isn't perfectly flat, the caliper and pads will vibrate as they clamp down. This can be caused by excessive heat, improper installation, or simply wear.
  3. Glazed Brake Pads: If brake pads get extremely hot, their surface can harden or 'glaze,' leading to reduced friction and a squealing noise. This often happens from aggressive braking or repetitive hard stops.
  4. Contamination: Oil, grease, or even rust on the brake pads or rotors can cause squealing.
  5. Improper Installation/Hardware: Less likely on a newer car, but loose or missing brake hardware (shims, clips) can cause noise and vibration.

Diagnostics:

  • There are no OBD-II codes for brake squeal or vibration.
  • A mechanic will visually inspect the brake pads for wear and the rotors for scoring, rust, or uneven surfaces.
  • They will measure the rotor thickness and runout (how much it deviates from being perfectly flat) using a micrometer and a dial indicator.
  • They will also check the brake calipers for proper function and ensure the guide pins are well-lubricated.

When to See a Shop:

  • You should take your TLX to an Acura dealership or a trusted brake specialist as soon as possible.
  • While squealing can sometimes be minor, the addition of vibration indicates a more significant issue that affects braking performance and safety.
  • Ignoring warped rotors can lead to premature wear of other brake components and potentially longer stopping distances.
  • The solution will likely involve replacing the brake pads and either machining (resurfacing) or replacing the brake rotors, depending on their condition and thickness.
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