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Vibration During Braking on 2020 XT5 - Warped Rotors?

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Amanda S. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:58 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury

Hi everyone,

I've got a 2020 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury with about 40,000 miles on it. Lately, I've been experiencing a noticeable vibration through the steering wheel and brake pedal whenever I apply the brakes, especially at highway speeds. It's not a constant vibration while driving, only when braking.

I'm thinking it might be warped brake rotors, but I wanted to get some opinions here. Is this a common issue for the XT5? What else could cause this kind of vibration? I haven't had any warning lights come on.

Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:58 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Your description of vibration during braking, particularly at highway speeds, strongly suggests an issue with your 2020 Cadillac XT5's brake system. While 'warped rotors' is a common term, it's more accurately described as uneven rotor thickness or runout. Here's what could be happening and what to check:

  1. Uneven Rotor Thickness/Runout:

    • Cause: This is the most common cause of brake pulsation. It occurs when the brake rotor surface isn't perfectly flat or has variations in thickness. This can be due to excessive heat, improper lug nut torque, or worn brake pads that deposit uneven material on the rotor.
    • Effect: As the brake pads clamp down on the uneven rotor, it causes the caliper to push back and forth, resulting in the pulsation you feel through the pedal and steering wheel.

  2. Worn or Damaged Brake Pads: While less likely to cause pulsation on its own, severely worn or unevenly worn pads can contribute to rotor issues.

  3. Sticking Caliper: A brake caliper that isn't releasing properly can cause excessive heat and uneven wear on the rotor, leading to pulsation.

  4. Suspension Components: In rare cases, worn suspension components like ball joints, tie rod ends, or control arm bushings can amplify brake pulsation, but they usually present with other symptoms while driving.

  5. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): For brake pulsation alone, you typically won't see OBD codes unless there's an issue with the ABS system (e.g., C0035 for a wheel speed sensor, but this would usually trigger an ABS light).

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately: If the vibration is severe, affects steering control, or if you notice a significant increase in stopping distance.
  • Soon: Even if mild, brake pulsation indicates a problem that will worsen over time and compromise braking performance. It's best to have a qualified technician inspect your brake system. They will check rotor runout, pad wear, and caliper function. Often, simply replacing or machining the rotors and installing new pads will resolve the issue.
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