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Loud Squealing and Grinding Brakes on my 2017 Sorento – Time for New Pads and Rotors?

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Sarah K. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:08 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Kia Sorento LX

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2017 Kia Sorento LX with about 75,000 miles on it, and lately, the brakes have been making some awful noises. It started with a high-pitched squeal when I'd lightly press the pedal, but now it's turned into a much louder grinding sound, especially when coming to a full stop. It's really noticeable, and I'm starting to feel a slight vibration through the pedal too.

I'm pretty sure it's time for new pads and rotors, but I wanted to get some opinions here. Could it be anything else? What brands do you recommend for replacements that offer good performance and don't break the bank? Also, is this something I could tackle myself in the driveway, or should I just take it to a shop?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:08 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing classic symptoms of worn brake components on your 2017 Kia Sorento. The progression from squealing to grinding, combined with pedal vibration, strongly suggests that your brake pads are severely worn and potentially the rotors are warped or scored.

Common Causes:

  1. Worn Brake Pads: The squealing is often caused by the wear indicators on the pads. Once the grinding starts, it means the pad material is completely gone, and the metal backing plate is contacting the rotor.
  2. Warped/Scored Rotors: The grinding and pedal vibration indicate that the rotors are likely damaged from the metal-on-metal contact or have become warped due due to excessive heat.

When to See a Shop:

Given the grinding noise, it's crucial to address this immediately. Driving with severely worn brakes can lead to reduced stopping power, increased stopping distances, and potential damage to other brake system components like calipers. While a brake job can be a DIY task for experienced individuals, if you're unsure or uncomfortable, it's always best to consult a professional mechanic.

Recommended Steps:

  1. Immediate Inspection: Have your brakes inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible. They will assess the condition of your pads, rotors, and calipers.
  2. Pad and Rotor Replacement: In most cases, if the pads are grinding, both the pads and rotors will need to be replaced. Attempting to just replace pads on scored rotors will lead to premature pad wear and continued noise.
  3. Brake Fluid Check: Ask the technician to check your brake fluid level and condition. Old or contaminated fluid can also affect braking performance.
  4. Consider Calipers: While less common, sometimes a seized caliper can cause uneven pad wear and similar symptoms. The inspection will confirm if your calipers are functioning correctly.

For aftermarket parts, popular and reliable brands include Akebono, Brembo, Wagner, and Raybestos for pads and rotors. Ensure you get parts specifically designed for your Sorento's year and trim.

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