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Pulsating Brakes on my 2018 Q50 Red Sport - What's going on?

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:05 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a really annoying pulsating feeling when I brake in my 2018 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport. It's most noticeable at higher speeds, like when I'm slowing down from 60-70 mph, but I can feel it a bit at lower speeds too. It feels like the pedal is pushing back at me.

I bought the car used about a year ago, and the brakes felt fine then. I haven't had any major work done on them since. The car has about 65,000 miles on it now. Could this be warped rotors, or something more serious? Any advice on what I should check first?

Thanks for any help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:05 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

That pulsating feeling you're experiencing when braking is a very common symptom, especially on vehicles with some miles on them. It's usually indicative of an issue with your brake system. Here's what's likely happening and what you should do:

Common Causes:

  1. Warped Brake Rotors: This is the most frequent cause. Over time, heat cycles and uneven wear can cause rotors to develop high and low spots, leading to the pulsating sensation as the brake pads contact the uneven surface.
  2. Uneven Brake Pad Wear: While less common for pulsation, unevenly worn pads can contribute to the issue.
  3. Sticking Brake Caliper: If a caliper isn't releasing properly, it can cause excessive heat and uneven wear on one side, leading to rotor warping and pulsation.
  4. Loose Wheel Bearings: Though less likely to be the primary cause of pulsation, a worn wheel bearing can introduce play that might be felt through the brakes.

Recommended Steps:

  1. Inspect Rotors and Pads: Visually inspect your brake rotors for any obvious grooves, cracks, or discoloration. Check the thickness of your brake pads. If the rotors look scored or have significant runout, they likely need to be replaced or resurfaced (if they meet minimum thickness specifications).
  2. Check Caliper Operation: Ensure your brake calipers are moving freely and not sticking. A sticking caliper can often be identified by excessive brake dust on one wheel or a burning smell after driving.
  3. Professional Inspection: Given that you're feeling a distinct pulsation, it's best to have a qualified mechanic inspect your entire brake system. They can measure rotor runout precisely and check for any other underlying issues.

When to See a Shop:

You should schedule an appointment with a trusted mechanic as soon as possible. While pulsating brakes might not always indicate immediate danger, they compromise your vehicle's braking performance and can worsen over time. Ignoring the issue can lead to extended stopping distances, increased wear on other brake components, and potentially more costly repairs down the line. There are typically no specific OBD codes for warped rotors, but a shop can perform a comprehensive diagnostic.

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