GMC Sierra 1500 Brake Lines
The GMC Sierra 1500 SLT or SLE is a light-duty pickup truck that offers refined handling. To ensure that a GMC truck maintains its smooth drive performance, drivers need to keep their braking components up to date. When the braking system starts to malfunction, the Sierra 1500 may need new brake lines.
How do the GMC Sierra braking lines work?Brake lines play a crucial role in the function of the system. Like most vehicles, the GMC Sierra 1500 uses a hydraulic braking system. With this mechanism, every time the drivers foot presses down on the pedal, fluid is transferred from the master cylinder to the braking calipers. The calipers will then inhibit the motion of the rotors, which effectively slows the vehicle to a halt. Fluid is the element that transfers the braking power from one part to the next. The lines are the element that carries the brake fluid. If the brake lines malfunction, the braking components will not receive enough fluid to halt the motion of the GMC vehicle.
What brake lines are available for the GMC Sierra 1500?There are two main types of lines. When searching for replacement parts for a GMC Sierra 1500 model, drivers have the following options:
- Flexible: Flexible options are usually made of rubber because this material is durable, long lasting, and bendable.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel options usually consist of an inner tube and an outer coating of steel mesh. Stainless lines never expand, which improves the accuracy of the braking system. GMC drivers looking for high performance braking power may want to invest in steel lines.
If your Sierra pickup has damaged braking lines, drivers may experience the following side effects:
- Leaks: When a line gets damaged, fluid may start to leak out of the braking system. Leaks usually happen when drivers press down on the pedal. GMC drivers may not notice these leaks at first, but if they take a look at the lines, they may notice leftover fluid visible on the line exteriors.
- Corrosion: When looking at damaged lines, Sierra drivers may also notice corrosion. This commonly happens to steel lines, as their structure allows detritus to accumulate. Lines become more susceptible to corrosion during the winter months when they come into contact with the salty residue used to melt ice.
- Braking issues: When the lines start to fail, drivers will notice changes in braking performance, ranging from sluggish pedal feel to delayed braking reactions. If Sierra truck drivers notice these changes, they should select new lines immediately.