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Persistent Brake Squeal and Mild Vibration on 2021 Lucid Air Dream Edition

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 5:15 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Lucid Air Dream Edition

I'm getting a really annoying squeal from the brakes on my 2021 Lucid Air Dream Edition, especially at low speeds or when coming to a gentle stop. It's not constant, but it's frequent enough to be concerning and quite embarrassing in traffic.

I also feel a slight vibration through the pedal sometimes, though it's not severe, mostly noticeable when braking from higher speeds. I've heard electric vehicles can have different brake characteristics due to regenerative braking, but this seems excessive for a luxury car.

The car has about 30,000 miles on it. Is this normal for Lucid, or should I be looking into new pads/rotors already? Any advice on what might be causing this?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 5:15 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Brake squeal and vibration, while sometimes common, can indicate issues that need attention, especially in an EV like the Lucid Air. EVs use friction brakes less frequently due to regenerative braking, which can lead to unique wear patterns.

Possible Causes:

  • Pad Glazing: Because EV friction brakes are used less often, the brake pads can develop a smooth, hardened, or 'glazed' surface. This glazing can cause squealing noises, especially at low speeds.
  • Rotor Runout/Warping: Slight warping or uneven wear on the brake rotors (often called 'runout') can cause vibration through the brake pedal and contribute to squealing.
  • Contamination: Dirt, dust, road grime, or even brake dust buildup can get trapped between the pad and rotor, creating noise.
  • Lack of Lubrication: Insufficient lubrication on caliper pins or pad shims can cause components to stick or vibrate, leading to noise.
  • Worn Pads/Rotors: Although less likely at 30,000 miles for an EV, it's still a possibility if usage has been particularly hard on the friction brakes.

What You Can Do:

  1. Brake Burnishing (if safe): Perform a few controlled, hard stops from moderate speeds (e.g., 60 mph down to 10 mph) in a safe, clear area. This can help to 'clean' the pads and rotors and remove any glazing.
  2. Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect your brake pads for thickness and rotors for any visible scoring, grooves, or uneven surfaces.
  3. Clean Brakes: A professional brake cleaning can remove accumulated dust and debris that might be causing the noise.

When to See a Shop:

If the squealing persists after attempting burnishing, if the vibration worsens, or if you notice any reduction in overall braking effectiveness, it's time for a professional brake inspection. A technician can measure rotor runout, check pad thickness, inspect caliper function, and ensure all components are properly lubricated and functioning as intended. Ignoring persistent brake issues can lead to reduced safety and more extensive repairs down the line.

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