Why does the new Excelle make a clunking sound when braking?

[IkerLynn]

Braking noise may be caused by new car break-in and brake discs. The specific reasons are as follows: 1. New car break-in: Since new cars in inventory have been parked for a long time, and brake discs are prone to rust, there will be noise when braking during the break-in period of a new car. After running more than 200 kilometers, the noise will become less obvious and braking will be more powerful. 2. Replacement of new friction pads or new brake discs: If workers do not chamfer or apply noise-reducing paste when replacing new friction pads, it is easy to cause braking noise. After replacing new brake discs, they cannot immediately break in well with the friction pads, resulting in noise. 3. Hard foreign objects entering the gap between the brake pads and brake discs: After wading through water or driving on muddy roads, hard sand and stones may enter the gap of the braking mechanism, causing jamming when the braking system is working. If they enter the gap of the brake disc, it will cause braking noise. 4. Loose braking mechanism: A common issue is that the brake caliper is not tightened to the specified torque during installation. When braking, if the brake pads are not fixed properly and do not fit tightly with the brake disc, noise will occur. 5. ABS intervention under special circumstances: Usually during emergency braking, when the driver brakes sharply, the ABS system slightly releases the brake and then clamps the brake disc again to prevent wheel lock-up, effectively reducing the risk of skidding. Therefore, the wheel may produce brief noise under high-frequency lock-up and release conditions.

[McKyle]

Over the years, I've handled many cases involving the Buick Excelle GT where a 'clunk' sound occurs when braking, which is likely related to the brake system. Common causes include severely worn brake pads or discs, where gaps can produce noise; or insufficient lubrication in the brake caliper guides, causing the caliper to move unevenly and create a clunk with each brake application. The ABS system can also produce a similar sound when it activates to prevent wheel lock-up by automatically releasing brake pressure—this is normal during hard braking but warrants inspection if it happens frequently under normal conditions. Loose suspension components, such as control arms or wheel hub bearings, can amplify vibrations that are felt through the brakes. I recommend an immediate comprehensive inspection at a professional shop, starting with simple diagnostics like measuring brake disc thickness or lubricating caliper guides to prevent minor issues from escalating. Regular maintenance, such as keeping the brake system clean and changing brake fluid every two years, can prevent many such noises.

[MacFinley]

As a daily driver of the new Excelle, my car started making a clunking sound when braking after tens of thousands of kilometers. At first, I didn't pay much attention, thinking it was due to cold weather, but the noise became louder and more urgent. I took it to a repair shop, and the mechanic said the brake disc surface was slightly uneven and just needed grinding; it could also be the ABS working normally, but if it only makes noise at specific speeds, it's fine. A friend's car had a similar issue, and it turned out to be aging and loose suspension link bushings, causing parts to shake and produce the clunking sound when braking. Don't ignore such minor issues—addressing them early saves money and ensures safety. You can also check the brake pad wear line yourself; if it's exposed, replace them immediately, as brakes are a matter of life and death. Sharing experiences helps everyone stay informed and reduces road hazards.

[DiSerenity]

A sudden clunking sound during braking must be taken seriously. It could indicate aging and separation of the brake pad friction material, or excessive wheel hub bearing clearance causing vibrations. Prolonged neglect will accelerate component wear, reduce braking efficiency, increase stopping distances, and pose particular risks on wet/slippery roads. While ABS activation may cause normal clunking sounds, persistent abnormal noises require inspection. I recommend regular brake system maintenance with checks at least every six months to remove dust and debris. Poor installation quality can also cause abnormal sounds - always use reputable repair shops to avoid secondary issues. Safety is no trivial matter; address problems immediately when detected.