Front Brake Squeal Noise (Install Front Disc Brake Pad Insulators)

Some customers may comment on a squeal noise coming from the front brakes during the first couple of brake applies while driving forward. This condition will be more prevalent after a cold (near-freezing and below) and damp (favorable for frost, snow or rain) night.

Install front disc brake pad insulators to both inboard pads using the procedure below. These insulators will clip onto the backing plate of the pad by three metal clips. Each insulator is specific to the right and left side and are identified by an "R" or "L."

1. Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder auxiliary reservoir.
2. If the brake fluid level is midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, no brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding.
3. If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.
4. Raise and support the vehicle.
5. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
6. Install and firmly hand tighten two wheel nuts to opposite wheel studs in order to retain the rotor to the hub.
7. Install a large C-clamp over the body of the brake caliper with the C-clamp ends against the rear of the caliper body and against the outboard brake pad.
8. Tighten the C-clamp evenly until the caliper piston is compressed into the caliper bore enough to allow the caliper to slide past the brake rotor.
9. Remove the C-clamp from the caliper.
10. Remove the brake caliper lower guide pin bolt.



11. Without disconnecting the hydraulic brake flexible hose, pivot the caliper upward and secure the caliper with heavy mechanics wire, or equivalent.



12. Install the insulator onto the backing plate of the inboard, piston-side brake pad.
13. Remove the support, and rotate the brake caliper into position over the disc brake pads and to the caliper mounting bracket.
14. Install the lower brake caliper guide pin bolt.

Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 44 N·m (32 lb ft).

15. Remove the wheel nuts retaining the brake rotor to the hub.
16. Install the tire and wheel assembly.
17. Repeat steps 5 through 16 for the other side.
18. Lower the vehicle.
19. With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
20. Slowly release the brake pedal.
21. Wait 15 seconds, then gradually apply the brake pedal approximately 2/3 of its travel distance again until a firm brake pedal apply is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
22. Fill the master cylinder auxiliary reservoir to the proper level.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: