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2017 Yukon SLT Brakes Pulsating and Vibration at Speed

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:38 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 GMC Yukon SLT

When I brake in my 2017 GMC Yukon SLT, especially from higher speeds, I feel a strong pulsation through the brake pedal and sometimes even through the steering wheel. It's accompanied by a noticeable vibration that seems to get worse the harder I brake. This is most prominent on the highway.

The vehicle has around 90,000 miles. I had the pads and rotors replaced about 30,000 miles ago. Could the rotors be warped again already, or is there something else going on?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:38 AM

0

Pulsating brakes and vibration during braking, especially from highway speeds, are common symptoms that your 2017 GMC Yukon SLT is experiencing brake system issues. While 'warped rotors' is a common term, it's more accurately described as uneven rotor thickness or runout. Here's what's likely happening:

  1. Rotor Runout/Uneven Thickness: This is the most frequent cause. Over time, or due to improper bedding-in of new pads/rotors, or even hard braking that overheats the rotors, the rotor surface can develop high and low spots. As the brake pads clamp down, they grab these uneven surfaces, causing the pulsation you feel.
  2. Sticking Caliper: If a brake caliper piston or slide pins are sticking, the brake pad can remain partially engaged or apply uneven pressure. This generates excessive heat on one part of the rotor, leading to uneven wear and pulsation. It can also cause a burning smell and reduced fuel economy.
  3. Worn Wheel Bearings: A failing wheel bearing can introduce excessive play in the wheel, which can be exacerbated under braking, leading to vibration that you feel through the pedal and steering wheel.
  4. Tire Balance/Suspension Issues: While less likely to be the primary cause of braking-specific pulsation, an severely unbalanced tire or a worn suspension component (like a tie rod or ball joint) can contribute to overall vehicle vibration, which might become more pronounced when the braking system is also under stress.

When to see a shop: It's crucial to have your braking system inspected by a professional. They will:

  • Inspect all rotors for runout and thickness variation.
  • Check calipers for proper function, ensuring pistons retract and slide pins move freely.
  • Assess brake pads for even wear and sufficient material.
  • Inspect wheel bearings for play.

While there are no specific OBD-II codes for rotor pulsation, if a caliper is severely sticking and causing excessive heat, it could potentially impact a wheel speed sensor, leading to an ABS or Traction Control system code (e.g., C0035-C0050 for wheel speed sensor faults). However, the primary diagnostic will be a visual and physical inspection of the brake components. Addressing this issue will restore braking performance and safety.

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