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Vibration when braking in my 2018 TLX A-Spec

0

Chris P. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:41 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec

Hey everyone, I've been experiencing a noticeable vibration through the steering wheel and brake pedal whenever I apply the brakes in my 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec. It's especially prominent at highway speeds, but I can feel it even when slowing down from lower speeds.

I bought the car used about a year ago, and it's got around 65,000 miles on it now. The brakes were supposedly serviced before I bought it, but I'm starting to wonder if something's off. It's not a grinding noise, just a pulsing vibration.

Could this be warped rotors, or maybe something else with the calipers or suspension? Any advice on what to check first would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:41 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Brake vibrations, often called 'brake judder,' are a common issue and can be quite unsettling. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and what to do:

Common Causes:

  1. Warped Brake Rotors: This is the most frequent culprit. Rotors can warp due to excessive heat, improper break-in, or uneven lug nut torque. The uneven surface causes the caliper to push against a varying thickness, creating the pulsation.
  2. Uneven Pad Deposits: Sometimes, brake pad material can transfer unevenly onto the rotor surface, creating high spots that mimic a warped rotor.
  3. Sticking Brake Caliper: If a caliper piston or slide pin is seized, it can cause uneven pad wear and localized overheating, leading to rotor issues.
  4. Suspension Components: Less common for only braking, but worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or wheel bearings can amplify vibrations.

Steps to Diagnose & Address:

  1. Visual Inspection: Check your brake rotors for visible grooves, scoring, or discoloration. Look at the brake pads for uneven wear.
  2. Feel for Heat: After a drive, carefully feel if one wheel hub is significantly hotter than the others, which could indicate a sticking caliper.
  3. Wheel Bearing Check: Jack up the car and try to wiggle the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, then 3 and 9 o'clock. Excessive play indicates a worn wheel bearing.

When to See a Shop:

If you're not comfortable inspecting your brakes, or if the vibration persists after a basic check, it's crucial to take your 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec to a qualified mechanic. They have specialized tools to measure rotor runout and can properly diagnose and replace faulty components. Ignoring brake issues can compromise your safety and lead to more expensive repairs down the line.

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