W124: E420 brake issue
 

Hi Folks:

Owner of a 1994 E420 sedan. Going through a very tough time with my brake replacement. Brought the car in to my independent mechanic who uses oem replacement parts whenever doing any major service.

Replaced all four of my brakes and rotors. Had to bring it back twice due to very loud screeching in front and back which was also triggering my anti-lock brakes on occasion. Third time around he managed to quiet down the squeeching but one rear wheel still makes a loud noise without the brakes on up to about 20MPH and makes some noise again when the brakes are applied. It is better than before but far from right. My old brakes made no noise and my mechanic explained that the newer materials are better for the enviornment but are prone to to this problem which he sees all the time. He also said that he preferred the older versions which may have improved the front two wheels this time.

Is there anything that can be done by a dealer than an independent in terms of fixing the issue? Are we missing anything? Is break in the critical factor?

My mechanic says check after 300 miles.

My mechanic has treated me well and this has been a major expense and I want to get the car back on track.

Thanks for reading.

D.H.

What you don't say is whether your independent mechanic specializes in Mercedes Benz. If not then find one that does.

Steve

Sounds fishy to me. Do you have confirmation of what brand of parts, or that they were from the dealer. Sounds to me like something wrong with the installation, or perhaps a flawed new part which does happen. If he won't chase it get a second opinion.

Those years were REALLY pciky on pads.

Pad wise only dealership OE or I believe pagid makes a special anti-squeel version which is an improvement.

Michael

Look for another mechanic. Brakes are so simple to do; a DIY job if you have the time. Had mine recently done by an indy. car stops at a dime.

E420 squealing
 

I had a similar problem after my pads were replaced with the squealing and the ABS activating at very low speeds. It was cured by cleaning the metallic 'fuzz' from the ABS sensors and taking a little more material off the rotors. The squealing was VERY annoying, almost earsplitting at times. :eek: