I have an '02 Avy Z71; brought to dealer to check noisy brakes. Report was that backing plates were nearly rusted through, would cost $2k to drop rear axle, replace plates, new brakes, drums, rotors; got price down to $1300. Went to pick up and brake pedal went straight to floor; obviously did not leave with my truck. This ties in to second issue: dealer said that metal in backing plate would always rust, wasn't top grade. Also advised by dealer that there was "significant" rust on undercarriage, frame rails, tie rods. Avy does not reside near ocean (though it did spend 2 weeks at Daytona after we bought it, and about 4 weeks at Maine coast), doesn't see much winter driving except when snow is really challenging (which here in the northeast has been minimal in last 5 years), and gets undercarriage washed regularly. Dealer does not think GM will offer any assistance in repairing undercarriage rust, or helping with backing plates; I ask, why should there be "significant" rusting at 5-year mark? Has anyone else had similar rusting problems? Any advice on resolving this issue? By the way, Avy has 16k miles. Thanks, any advice helpful.
Jim