A Mechanic's Guide to the 2008-2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Disc Brake Hardware Kit
Eliminate brake noise and fix uneven pad wear on your truck by understanding this crucial, often-overlooked component.
- Always replace the disc brake hardware kit with every brake pad change to ensure quiet operation and even wear.
- Thoroughly clean rust from the caliper bracket and lubricate slide pins and pad contact points.
- For this truck, ACDelco Gold (OEM), Raybestos, and Centric are considered high-quality choices.
- If you own a 2014 model, verify with a dealer that the brake vacuum pump recall (NHTSA #19V761000) has been performed.
Is Your Sierra's Brake Hardware Failing?
When brake hardware wears out, rusts, or loses its tension, it can cause a range of braking problems. Because these parts are under constant heat and pressure, they are not designed to be reused. Ignoring them during a brake job is a common mistake that leads to more issues down the road. Watch for these clear warning signs.
🎬 Watch: A guide to identifying common signs of brake failure.Symptoms of Bad Brake Hardware
- Brake Noise: Squealing, scraping, or clunking sounds when you apply or release the brake pedal are a primary symptom. This is often caused by pads vibrating in a loose clip or sticking on a corroded one.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If you inspect your brakes and find one pad is worn significantly more than the other on the same wheel, it's a classic sign of a seized slide pin or binding hardware preventing the caliper from moving correctly.
- Brake Drag or Pulling: A feeling that the brakes are still engaged after you've lifted your foot off the pedal can be caused by rusted hardware that prevents the pads from retracting. This creates constant friction, which can lead to a burning smell, warped rotors, and poor fuel economy.
Vehicle-Specific Issue: 2014 Brake System Recall
General Motors issued a major safety recall for the 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 (NHTSA Campaign #19V761000). This recall concerns the brake vacuum pump, which could fail and lead to a hard brake pedal and increased stopping distances. The fix is a software update performed by a dealer. While not a hardware kit problem, it is a critical safety issue for all 2014 model year owners to be aware of.
🎬 See this video for details on the GM brake recall.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
When you replace your brake pads, you should always install a new hardware kit. They are inexpensive and essential for a complete and quiet brake job. For your 2008-2014 Sierra, aftermarket brands offer excellent quality, often meeting or exceeding factory specifications.
Brand Quality Tiers
Premium Aftermarket (Raybestos, Centric):
Brands like Raybestos and Centric are highly regarded by professional mechanics and DIYers for their quality and fitment. The Raybestos Element3 line is often recommended for its durability and inclusion of high-quality components. These kits are an excellent choice if you prioritize quiet operation and long-term reliability, especially if you tow or haul with your truck.
OEM-Equivalent (ACDelco Gold):
ACDelco is GM's own parts brand, making it the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) choice. When choosing ACDelco, look for their "Gold" (formerly "Professional") line, as this represents their top-tier parts. The cheaper "Silver" (formerly "Advantage") line is considered a lower-grade, economy option. ACDelco Gold is for the owner who wants to stick with the original factory design and quality.
Standard Replacement (Dorman, Dynamic Friction, Carlson):
Dorman, Dynamic Friction, and Carlson offer reliable, direct-replacement hardware kits that provide a good balance of quality and value. These are solid, budget-friendly choices for daily driving and general use, and are widely available. They are engineered to match the original hardware's form and function.
Pro Tip: Preparation is Key
When installing your new hardware, take the time to thoroughly clean the caliper bracket surfaces where the clips sit. Use a wire brush to remove all rust and corrosion. A clean surface ensures the new clips seat properly and allow the pads to move freely. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step walkthrough for replacing front pads and hardware. Also, apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake lubricant to the points where the pads slide on the clips.
Cost of Replacing Your Disc Brake Hardware
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $8.75 - $40.07 |
| New OEM Hardware Kit (ACDelco Gold) | $15 - $50 |
| Shop Labor (Hardware installed with pads) | $120 - $250 per axle |
Note: Labor costs are estimated as part of a full brake pad and rotor replacement job. The hardware itself adds minimal time to the installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to replace the hardware with every brake job?
Yes. The old clips and springs lose tension from thousands of heating and cooling cycles. Reusing them is a common cause of brake noise and improper pad movement. For the low cost, it is essential insurance for a proper brake job.
What is included in a typical disc brake hardware kit?
A kit for your Sierra 1500 will typically include the metal abutment clips (pad retainers) for the caliper bracket and, in some kits, new caliper guide pins or pin boots. You will need one kit per axle (one for the front brakes, one for the rear).
What is the difference between front and rear hardware?
The front and rear brake calipers and pads on your truck are different sizes, so the hardware is not interchangeable. Ensure you are buying the correct kit for the axle you are working on.
Can a bad hardware kit cause my ABS light to come on?
It's unlikely to be the direct cause. However, a severely dragging brake caused by seized hardware can overheat the hub and potentially damage the wheel speed sensor, which would trigger the ABS light. A user on a forum noted their ABS lights came on when their brakes were sticking.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 19207933 18K1971 18K1970
Kits typically include abutment clips and springs. Materials are usually stainless steel or plated steel for corrosion resistance. One kit is required per axle.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- GMC Sierra 1500:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Sierra's Brake Hardware Failing?
- Symptoms of Bad Brake Hardware
- Vehicle-Specific Issue: 2014 Brake System Recall
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Pro Tip: Preparation is Key
- Cost of Replacing Your Disc Brake Hardware
- Frequently Asked Questions
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