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2021 Envision Avenir - Brakes wearing out extremely fast, grinding noise

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:45 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Buick Envision Avenir

Hi all,

I bought a new 2021 Buick Envision Avenir about two years ago, and I'm already on my second set of front brake pads and rotors. I only have about 35,000 miles on the car, and I feel like this is way too soon for major brake work. Now I'm hearing a grinding noise again from the front when I brake, which usually means the pads are gone.

I don't consider myself a heavy braker, and most of my driving is highway. Is this normal for the Envision, or could there be an underlying issue causing premature wear? Any thoughts or similar experiences?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:45 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Premature brake wear and a grinding noise on your 2021 Buick Envision Avenir at 35,000 miles is definitely not normal, especially with mostly highway driving. This indicates an underlying issue that needs immediate attention. Here are the most probable causes:

  1. Sticking Caliper Piston or Guide Pins: This is a very common reason for accelerated wear. If a caliper piston is seized or the guide pins are corroded/unlubricated, the brake pad will remain partially engaged against the rotor even when you're not braking. This causes constant friction, excessive heat, rapid wear, and often a grinding noise.
  2. Low-Quality Brake Components: While your original brakes should have lasted longer, if the replacement pads and rotors were of a lower quality, they might wear out faster. However, the grinding suggests a more mechanical issue.
  3. Driver Habits (Less Likely Given Your Description): Aggressive driving with frequent hard braking can reduce brake life, but your highway driving description makes this less probable as the primary cause.
  4. Rotor Condition: If the rotors were not properly resurfaced or replaced during the previous brake job, or if they've warped severely due to a sticking caliper, they can contribute to rapid pad wear and noise.

When to see a shop:

  • Immediate Inspection: A grinding noise indicates metal-on-metal contact, meaning your brake pads are likely completely worn down. This is a severe safety hazard and can quickly damage your rotors beyond repair. Do not delay inspection.
  • Comprehensive Brake System Check: A professional technician should:
    • Inspect all brake calipers for free movement of pistons and guide pins.
    • Check for proper lubrication of guide pins.
    • Examine brake hoses for blockages or deterioration.
    • Assess the condition of brake pads and rotors for uneven wear, scoring, or warping.
    • Ensure the parking brake system is not dragging.

Addressing a sticking caliper or other mechanical fault will not only restore safety but also prevent you from repeatedly replacing brake components prematurely.

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