Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Holden Cruze: Squealing

My Holden Cruze has developed a high-pitched squeal that goes away when a heavy brake application is made. At the 45,000 km service I asked for this to be checked I was advised that the cause was worn brake pads and lipped brake rotors, and the solution would be to replace them. I asked about machining the rotors, but was told that they were worn so badly that they would be undersized if machined. I have had several new cars over the past 15 years with most doing around 100,000 km before trading in and have never had to replace brake pads let alone rotors on any of these cars. The dealer said they were a wearing item and not covered by warranty, and Holden confirmed the dealer's advice when I queried it. The customer service person said that engineering had advised that the brakes were engineered in Europe and this wear could be expected at this mileage. Is this a reasonable explanation, or should I keep pushing for a better outcome?

You can push for a better outcome, but it's highly unlikely that will achieve one. Brakes are wearing much faster than they once did, mostly as a result of eliminating asbestos from the pad material. Pads and rotors are considered wear-and-tear items, and as such are not covered by the warranty.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

Comments

Have a new question for the CarsGuide team?
More than 9,000 questions asked and answered.
Complete guide to Holden Cruze 2012
Complete guide to Holden Cruze 2012 CarsGuide Logo
Reviews, price, specs and more