1998 Chevrolet Venture Owner's Manual - Page 364

Brake Wear Your vehicle hasfront disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new padsare needed. The sound may come andgo or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly). Some driving conditions or climates may causea brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly torque wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM specifications. A CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes won't work well. That could lead to an accident.When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced. Your rear drum brakes don't have wear indicators, but if you ever hear a rear brake rubbing noise, have the rear brake linings inspected immediately. Also, the rear brake drums shouldbe removed and inspectedeach time the tires are removed for rotation or changing. When you have the front brake pads replaced, have the rear brakes inspected, too. Brake linings should alwaysbe replaced as complete axle sets. See "Brake System Inspection" in Section 7 of this manual underPart C "Periodic Maintenance Inspections." NOTICE: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair. 6-29