Jim Grant's Tech Tips

‘98 Chevy Malibu, Rotor Problems
Q: I have had to get the rotors turned or changed every 8-10 thousand miles on my ‘98 Chevy Malibu. I know this is not normal and I can't get answers from the dealership or even Chevrolet’s customer service. Do you know of any recalls or anybody else who is having this same problem? Is there a web site that I can go to locate other unhappy Malibu owners?

A: There is a reason for your reoccurring brake pulsation problems; the fix may require some unique equipment to correct your dilemma. If the brake service has been performed correctly, another cause may have to do with the hub that the rotor is mounted to. Irregularities with the hub will result in a brake pedal pulsation that will return shortly after brake work has been performed. The fix is either identifying and replacing the offending component or have the brake rotors machined while on the vehicle. An on the vehicle brake lath allows the brake rotors to be matched to the hub assembly while machining. The process costs slightly more but provides unsurpassed quality in the finished product. This could correct your reoccurring brake problem.