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Premature Brake Wear and Front End Noise on 2021 Mirage G4

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE

My 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE, with only 35,000 miles, is already having major brake issues. I'm hearing a loud grinding noise from the front wheels when I brake, and the pedal feels a bit soft. I had the brakes checked at 25k, and they said they were fine, but now it's really bad.

Also, over bumps, I'm hearing a distinct clunking sound from the front suspension. It's not constant, just when hitting uneven road surfaces. Could these issues be related, or am I looking at two separate problems? I didn't expect to replace brakes so soon on such a new car, and the suspension noise is concerning.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:13 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's concerning to hear about premature brake wear and suspension noise on your 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage G4. While these can sometimes be related, they often point to separate issues. Neither of these typically triggers an OBD code, as they are mechanical wear components.

Here's a breakdown of what might be happening:

Brake Issues (Grinding Noise, Soft Pedal):

  1. Causes:
    • Worn Brake Pads: The most common cause of grinding is metal-on-metal contact, meaning your brake pads are completely worn down, and the backing plate is grinding against the rotor.
    • Warped Rotors: While less likely to cause grinding, warped rotors can lead to a soft or pulsating pedal feel. However, if the pads were severely worn, the heat generated could warp them.
    • Stuck Caliper: A caliper piston that isn't retracting properly can cause continuous friction, leading to rapid pad wear, overheating, and a grinding noise.
    • Contamination: Road debris or rust can sometimes get lodged between the pad and rotor.
  2. Action: The grinding noise indicates an urgent need for inspection. Driving with metal-on-metal braking is dangerous and can quickly damage the rotors beyond repair, increasing repair costs.

Front End Clunking Noise:

  1. Causes:
    • Worn Struts/Shocks: The Mirage's suspension components can wear, and worn struts often manifest as clunking noises over bumps, especially if the internal valving or mounting bushings are compromised.
    • Sway Bar Links/Bushings: These are common wear items. If the links are loose or the bushings are degraded, the sway bar can shift and clunk.
    • Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends: Worn ball joints or tie rod ends can also cause clunking and affect steering stability.
    • Control Arm Bushings: Deteriorated rubber bushings on the control arms can allow excessive movement and generate noise.
  2. Action: While not as immediately critical as brake issues, suspension noise indicates wear that should be addressed. It can affect handling, tire wear, and overall safety.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately for Brakes: Do not delay getting your brakes inspected and repaired. This is a critical safety component.
  • Soon for Suspension: Schedule an appointment to have the front suspension thoroughly inspected. A mechanic can identify the source of the clunking by visually checking components and performing a 'shake test.' It's possible a worn suspension component is also contributing to uneven brake wear, though less common.
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