The Chevrolet Impala is a popular full-sized family sedan that has long been a mainstay in the Chevrolet model lineup. First introduced in 1958, the Impala was hugely popular through to the early 80s. Growing consumer preferences for smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles caused the discontinuation of the Impala model in 1986. A sporty version of the Impala reappeared briefly from 1994 through 1996, but failed to compete effectively with corresponding imports. In 2000 Chevrolet once again introduced the Impala, and the much-improved design once again caught on with consumers. The 2003 had disc brakes on all wheels, and Impala owners can save themselves aggravation and money by learning to troubleshoot the brakes themselves.
Instructions
- 1
Determine the type of brake noise. Brake squeal is often the result of hard brake pads or contamination on the pad surface. Cures include cleaning the brakes, installing noise reducing shims on the backs of the pads and using pads with softer lining material. If you hear a grinding noise, it is likely that one or more of the brake pads are worn out, or the pad lining has separated from the backing plate. The noise can also indicate that a foreign object is caught in the pad lining. A loud thumping accompanied by vibration can indicate that the brake rotor is severely warped or cracked. For any of these conditions, the brakes should be inspected immediately and defective components replaced.
2Determine the nature of the brake vibration. A strong, low-frequency pulsation or vibration that occurs only when the brakes are applied can be the result of a warped, cracked or misaligned disc, or an out-of-round drum. The solution is to replace the defective part. If vibration is present even when the brakes are not applied, and worsens considerably when the brakes are applied, it can indicate a badly worn wheel bearing or a badly misaligned wheel. Repairs include realigning the wheels, and inspecting and servicing the wheel bearings.
3Evaluate the brake harshness. Grabbing brakes are often caused by dirt or contamination on the pad surfaces, and this can be eliminated with a good cleaning. If only one wheel is grabbing, it can indicate a problem with the brake proportioning valve, in which case the valve must be serviced.
