The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Persistent Brake Squeal on my 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring

0

Ryan M. · rep 0 · May 22, 7:30 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a persistent squealing noise from my brakes, especially at low speeds or when coming to a complete stop. It's a 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring, and I've only got about 15,000 miles on it. I expected the brakes to be pretty quiet, especially with all the regenerative braking EVs use.

The noise seems to be coming from the front, but it's hard to pinpoint exactly. It's not constant, but it's frequent enough to be annoying, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. I've tried braking harder a few times to see if it would clear up, but no luck.

Is this a common issue with the Lucid Air? Should I be worried, or is it just something that happens with EV brakes due to less frequent friction brake use? Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated before I take it to the service center.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 7:30 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Brake squeal on EVs like your 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring is a common concern, often stemming from the unique way electric vehicles utilize their braking systems. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and what to do:

Causes of Brake Squeal in EVs:

  1. Infrequent Friction Brake Use: EVs primarily use regenerative braking, which means the friction brakes (pads and rotors) are used less frequently than in traditional gasoline cars. This can lead to:
    • Rust/Corrosion: A thin layer of rust can build up on the rotors, especially if the car sits for a while or in humid conditions. This usually clears up after a few firm stops.
    • Glazed Brake Pads: If the pads aren't used vigorously enough, their surface can become hardened or 'glazed,' leading to squealing.
  2. Brake Dust Accumulation: Dust and debris can build up between the brake pad and rotor, causing noise.
  3. Worn Brake Components: While less likely at 15,000 miles, excessively worn pads or rotors, or issues with brake calipers, can cause squealing. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms like grinding or a spongy pedal.
  4. Improper Installation/Bedding: If brake components were recently replaced, improper installation or failure to 'bed-in' new pads can lead to noise.

What You Can Do:

  1. Perform Hard Stops (Safely): Find a safe, open area and perform several firm, controlled stops from moderate speeds (e.g., 40-50 mph down to 10-15 mph). This can help clean off rust and recondition glazed pads. Avoid locking up the brakes.
  2. Visual Inspection: If comfortable, visually inspect your brake rotors for excessive rust or grooves. Check the brake pads for visible wear (though this is harder without removing the wheel).
  3. Check for Warning Lights: Ensure no ABS, traction control, or brake system warning lights are illuminated on your dashboard. While squealing itself rarely triggers an OBD code, a deeper issue might.

When to See a Shop:

It's time to visit a Lucid service center if:

  • The squealing persists or worsens after trying the hard stops.
  • You hear a grinding noise, which indicates metal-on-metal contact and severely worn pads.
  • You notice any changes in brake pedal feel (spongy, hard, vibrating).
  • Any brake-related warning lights illuminate on your dash.
  • You suspect uneven tire wear or a pull to one side during braking, which could indicate a suspension or alignment issue related to braking.

While often benign in EVs, persistent brake noise should always be investigated to ensure safety and proper system function.

Menu

Help & account