1996 Buick Century Owner's Manual

Brake WearYour Buick has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make ahigh-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are wornand new pads are needed. The sound may come and go orbe heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except whenyou are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).A CAUTION:The brake wear warning sound means thatsooner or later your brakes won’t work well.That could lead to an accident. When you hearthe brake wear warning sound, have yourvehicle serviced.NOTICE:Continuing to drive with worn-out brake padscould result in costly brake repair.Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brakesqueal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied.This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes.Fre’- -1ovement of brake calipers and properly torquedwheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brakepulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake calipersfor movement, brake pads for wear, and evenly torquewheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM specifications.Your rear drum brakes don’t have wear indicators, but ifyou ever hear a rear brake rubbing noise, have the rearbrake linings inspected. Also, the rear brake drums shouldbe removed and inspected each time the tires are removedfor rotation or changing. When you have the front brakesreplaced, have the rear brakes inspected, too.Brake linings should always be replaced as completeaxle sets.Brake Pedal TravelSee your dealer if the brake pedal does not return tonormal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedaltravel. This could be a sign of brake trouble.Brake AdjustmentEvery time you apply the brakes, with or without thevehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.6-31