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2020 Acadia brake pedal pulsation and steering wheel shake

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Amanda S. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:41 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 GMC Acadia SLT

My 2020 GMC Acadia SLT, with about 45,000 miles, has developed a really annoying issue when braking. When I apply the brakes, especially from highway speeds, I feel a distinct pulsation through the brake pedal, and the steering wheel shakes quite a bit. It's not as bad at lower speeds, but it's definitely there.

I had the brakes serviced about 15,000 miles ago, and they said everything looked good then. Could this be warped rotors already? Or is there something else I should be considering? It's making me a bit nervous on longer trips.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:41 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Brake pedal pulsation and steering wheel shake during braking on your 2020 GMC Acadia are classic symptoms of an issue within the braking system. Here's what's likely happening and what steps to take:

  1. Warped Brake Rotors: This is the most common cause. While rotors don't technically 'warp' in the traditional sense, uneven heating and cooling can lead to inconsistent thickness (runout) or deposits on the rotor surface. When the brake pads contact these irregularities, it causes the pulsation you feel in the pedal and the steering wheel shake. This is more pronounced at higher speeds due to the rotational forces.
  2. Sticking Caliper: A brake caliper that isn't releasing properly can cause excessive heat buildup on one rotor, leading to the issues described. It can also cause uneven pad wear.
  3. Tire/Wheel Imbalance (Less Likely for Braking Specifics): While an unbalanced wheel can cause steering wheel shake, it typically occurs constantly at certain speeds, not just during braking. However, if combined with a brake issue, it could exacerbate the shake.
  4. Worn Suspension Components: In rare cases, severely worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or wheel bearings could amplify brake pulsation, but they are usually not the primary cause.

When to See a Shop:

It's crucial to have your Acadia inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Braking issues affect vehicle safety. A technician will inspect your brake rotors for runout, check the calipers for proper function, and assess the condition of your brake pads and other suspension components. They can measure rotor thickness and determine if resurfacing (if within spec) or replacement is necessary. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to reduced braking performance and potentially dangerous situations.

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