General Motors (GM) recently issued Bulletin #24-NA-073 to provide important information regarding premature front brake pad wear on specific vehicles. If you own a Cadillac, Chevrolet, or GMC model from the affected years, this is a must-read to ensure you’re aware of potential issues and solutions.
Affected Models and Years
This issue applies to the following GM vehicles:
Cadillac
Escalade Models (2021-2024)
Chevrolet
Suburban (2021-2024)
Silverado 1500 New (2022; RPO J22, VIN Digit 5 = A / D)
Silverado 1500 (2023-2024)
Tahoe (2021-2024)
GMC
Sierra 1500 New (2022; RPO J22, VIN Digit 5 = H / U)
Sierra 1500 (2023-2024)
Yukon Models (2021-2024)
Regions Impacted
The issue affects vehicles in North America, Europe, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and the Middle East.
The Issue: Premature Brake Pad Wear
Under certain driving conditions, particularly on hilly or mountainous terrain with frequent braking, the front brake pads may wear out faster than expected. This is attributed to the brake pads' formulation designed for reduced noise. While this design improves noise reduction, it can result in shorter wear life.
Recommended Solution
To address this issue, GM advises dealers to replace the original front brake pads with an alternate part that offers improved durability.
Replacement Part Information:
Part Number: 84847749
Description: Pad Kit – Front Disc Brake
Quantity: 1 per vehicle
Warranty Coverage
If your vehicle is still within the New Vehicle Limited Warranty, GM will cover the cost of brake pad replacement up to 7,500 miles (12,000 kilometers in Canada). Any replacement after this mileage will be considered routine maintenance and not covered under warranty.
What Should You Do?
If you’ve noticed unusual front brake pad wear or frequently drive in conditions involving steep descents and heavy braking, consider visiting your dealership. Mention bulletin #24-NA-073 to ensure you receive the correct replacement parts and service.
Preventive Measures
While GM has provided a solution, you can also take steps to prolong brake pad life:
Adopt Braking Best Practices: Avoid riding the brakes on descents; instead, use engine braking where possible.
Regular Inspections: Schedule routine brake inspections, especially if you frequently drive in mountainous regions.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for other bulletins and updates regarding your vehicle’s maintenance.
By staying proactive and addressing this issue promptly, you can ensure optimal performance and safety from your GM vehicle.