Front End Noise when braking

Hi Gang, Just purchased my 2002 Trailblazer used about 3 months ago, and have a progressively worse noise problem when I use the brakes. The noise is coming from the front end and it is best described as a "rubbing" or grinding squeal. My local mechanic seems to think that one or both struts may be bad, (It has 60K on it now), but the weird thing is that it only makes this ,(getting louder every day now), noise when I apply the brakes. I can hit bumps on the road without braking, and no noise. I also notice it almost dissapears when it is wet or very humid or rainy. When it is dry, it is pretty loud! I can push the front end of the vehicle down vigorously when it is parked, and no noise. Only when the brakes are applied and it is moving. Any suggestions, or anyone out there experiencing the same problem? Many thanks in advance for your responses, Joe

Hey!, I'm new here. I have the same problem with my 2 wheel drive 02 Trailblazer, which has 40,000 miles. This noise is only heard when braking and not when going over bumps. It's when the weight transfers to the front and the suspension compresses. It sound like a loose rubber bushing and makes a plastic/rubber groaning or squishing noise. I'm thinking control arm bushings or sway bar bushings. I've also noticed that it is quieter when raining and the undercarriage is wet. This leads me to believe that the water is acting like a lubricant. I've had it to the dealer 3 times for this noise, before and after the warranty period. p.s Bilstein now has replacement shocks for the TB. Thanks, Lou in FLA.

Sounds verry similar to a problem I was having. Mine is a 2002 4x4 ls with about 38,000 on it. Noise came and went for what seemed like no reason at all but got progressively worst. After two other attempts of bringing it in my mechanic finally herd it when I had the tail light recall serviced. He recognised the sound immediatly and ended up replacing both the rear stabelizer bars and bushings and also the bushings in the front. Luckily I was still covered under the GM Certified warrenty with only a month to spair. He told me it would have ran 500.00+ with parts and labor. Hope this helps and good luck.