Some 2020-2021 Silverado 2500HD/3500HD and Sierra 2500HD/3500HD models may have a brake squeal condition caused by the low scorch friction material used on the original brake pads.
To reduce the potential for noise, updated brake pads are available that use a high scorch friction material and feature a new lining shim on the backing plate. These new pads also are now being used at the assembly plant.
Replace the front and rear brake pads with the new pads if brake noise occurs. Current parts in inventory are the updated design.
TIP: If the pads are replaced and the squeal sound continues, check the orientation of the pads. Each brake pad has an Inner or Outer label to indicate where it should be installed. (Fig. 5) If the inboard and outboard designation on the pads indicate the pads are installed in the wrong location, the squeal sound may persist.
Fig. 5
During installation, keep in mind that only the left side of the truck has the wear sensors, which are mounted on the inner pad. (Fig. 6)
Fig. 6
Refer to Bulletin #20-NA-020 for additional information and the updated brake pad part numbers.
– Thanks to Kevin Minor
Please make sure the pads are the new part number as indicated in Bulletin #20-NA-020. If the noise persists, contact the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) for additional diagnostic information.
Like the note above from Robert Hoover, we too have experienced customer returning with VERY bad noise after installation of the new pads. We have confirmed proper pad installation. Customer provided video/sound of noise. GM’s response is noise is normal. You can hear this guys truck inside the dealership when he slowly drives by with the brake on. Customer not happy but we are not allowed to replace any other components or try another set of pads.
Double check the position on the pad set, we had a set that came in with two LH inners. it would seem with as important they are making it known, quality control would be on top of their game.
If your customers spend a lot of time in the dirt (as ours do) the squeal will come back even with the new pads, resurfacing rotors, lubing contact points, etc. It’s best to let them know ahead of time we’ll do the bulletin but they should expect to hear it again. Our customers who don’t drive on dirt roads or cruise the mall parking lots have had success with this repair.
The new design pads were only available since around March of this year from CCA. There have been two pad changes — the high scorch pads released in the Fall of 2019 and the recent pads that were released in March of 2021. Please make sure the pads are the new part number as indicated in the bulletin. If the noise persists, contact the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) for additional diagnostic information, if necessary.
We have found after replacing pads with new design pads and installed in the correct orientation that the customer still are having issues with brake squeal noise.
Warranty questions for brake pads should be directed to your Warranty Support Center (WSC) Specialist.
what if the truck has over 7500 miles and is out of the brake warranty ? i have 2 in here and both are at 26000 miles