Cutlass V6-191 3.1L VIN M SFI (1998)
Brake Rotor/Disc: Customer Interest
Brakes - Front Disc Brake Pulsation
File In Section: 05 - Brakes
Bulletin No.: 00-05-23-002B
Date: March, 2003
TECHNICAL
Subject:
Front Disc Brake Pulsation
(New Rotor Run-Out Specification and Correction Method)
Models:
1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu
1997-1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass
1999-2003 Oldsmobile Alero
1999-2003 Pontiac Grand Am
This bulletin is being revised to add model years and update the correction information.
Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 00-05-23-002A (Section 5 - Brakes).
Condition
Some customers may comment on a pulsation condition felt in the brake pedal and/or steering wheel during a brake apply. In some cases, it may be noted
that the pulsation condition has reoccurred in 5,000-11,000 km (3,000-7,000 mi) after having had the brakes serviced, tires rotated or any type of
servicing that required wheel removal.
Cause
Pulsation is the result of brake rotor thickness variation causing the brake caliper piston to move in and out of the brake caliper housing. This hydraulic
"pumping/pulsing" effect is transmitted through the brake system and may be felt in the brake pedal. In severe cases, this condition may also transmit
through the vehicle structure and other chassis system components such as the steering column or wheel. The major contributor to rotor thickness
variation is excessive lateral run-out of the rotor, causing the brake pads to wear the rotor unevenly over time.
Correction
Important:
All vehicles built since March 2000 have been built with the updated brake pad. Unless the brake pads are worn past the given specifications, the
brake pads should be not replaced.
FOR 2000 AND PRIOR MODEL YEAR VEHICLES ONLY:
Confirm that the brake pads have the number 1417 printed on the edge of the pad backing plate (refer to the illustration - glass cleaner can be used to