Owners of 2005-09 9-7X models may complain of an annoying squeak when the brake pedal is slowly applied or released. One likely cause for the noise, reports Saab, is swollen master cylinder seals. Contaminated brake fluid is the ultimate culprit.
To make a definitive diagnosis, have a fellow tech apply and release the brake pedal while you listen for the noise under the hood. If you can isolate the squeak to the master cylinder area, contaminated brake fluid is the source of the trouble. Draining the master cylinder and flushing and filling the brake system with an upgraded DOT 3 brake fluid, part No. 88862806, should put an end to the irritation.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].