Seven problems related to brake disc pads have been reported for the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The previous owner said the brakes wore quickly but we didn't realize how quickly until we had issues and got the repair information. New brakes about every 4 months are needed. Once they start wearing the pads and rotors are gone within a day. This time I nearly ran into someone they deteriorated so fast. I've read this seems to be a problem with many more of the same vehicles.
Brake pads failed.
Excessive front disc pad wear - vehicle pulls to left when braking - description is the same for each incident - pads replaced and drums turned at 9948 and 33000 miles - obviously there is a design problem with these brakes.
I purchased my 1997 3/4ton 4x4 Suburban in oct 97. After only two months having it,in December, 1997 I began experiencing problems with the front brakes squeaking. Took to the dealership they replaced the front pads. Then 2months later,in February, 98 same thing happened again. I became concerned as to why this was happening. This has been going on every 2-3 month since, and we are now in April, 99 and I am still having the same problem. Lucky to get 1-2 thousand miles on the pads. Have been to dealer approximately 10 times for this. Dealer was concerned as to why they were wearing so quick. Now 4-5 sets in this short of time. The last two times I have taken it to them I left the dealership with them still squeaking, and I wanted to have fixed. Now added to this problem is the front end pulling to the left front when you apply the brakes, and when it is raining out the vehicle hops all over the road when you try to stop. It is very scary. This is now a major concern, and I am afraid it could be dangerous. Im March ,99 I brought back to service manager for the squeak, pull of the front end. When I left that day vehicle had nothing done to it. Service manager said he would contact GMC rep. Have him come out maybe he could resolve the problem. This was on mar3,1999. I waited till Apr 8,1999, dorian taft GMC rep. Came out. I requested in writing that I be present when he was out so we could discuss my concerns. I was never called, I went to the dealership after work spoke to the service manager who informed me that the GMC rep was in a hurry didnt have time to discuss the issue with me or check my vehicle out like it should have been,and that was whole purpose. Im very upset and this is totally unsat. My vehicle concerns problems still stand. I believe this is very unsafe & think the problem needs to be addressed and taken care of now. Longest set of pads lasted approx 2000 miles. Front rims are a constant black. Please help me out.
Ongoing problem with rear wheel brakes system not working. Vehicle been inspected/repaired by two different dealers. On several occasions brake pads have been replaced. Also, four rotors have been replaced and turnd more then twice each. Problem still occurring.
Upon depressing the brake pedal when traveling down an incline, consumer noticed the pedal traveled to the floorboard, making it very difficult to stop and control the vehicle. Consumer also experienced excessive wear of the front and rear brake shoes and pads. Consumer has contacted the dealer, dealer has replaced the shoes and pads.
The brake pads had worn down excessively, causing grinding noises, like metal to metal. Taking vehicle to dealer's to check & have them repaired/replaced.