What Are the Causes of Abnormal Brake Noise in Cars?
3 Answers
Car brake abnormal noise is caused by: using inferior or overly hard brake pads, and the presence of sand or foreign objects between the brake pads and brake discs. Using inferior or overly hard brake pads: When the brake pads rub against the brake discs, they produce a squeaking noise. Therefore, it is essential to use high-quality brake pads when replacing them. The abnormal noise will gradually disappear as the brake pads and discs wear in, and the braking force will also improve, requiring no special treatment. However, hard braking should be avoided as much as possible, as it can accelerate the wear of the brake pads and discs, affecting their long-term service life. Presence of sand or foreign objects between the brake pads and brake discs: During normal driving, it is inevitable to encounter some complex road conditions. Due to the unique design of disc brakes, some sand or foreign objects may get between the brake pads and discs, causing abnormal noise when braking. You can try slamming on the brakes a few times to help expel the particles. Brake pad installation issues: After installing the brake pads, the calipers need to be properly adjusted. Issues such as the brake pads being too tightly fitted to the calipers or being installed backward can cause abnormal brake noise. Try reinstalling the brake pads or applying grease or specialized lubricant to the connection between the brake pads and calipers to resolve the issue.
I've been driving for almost ten years, and sometimes I hear squeaking or metal grinding noises when I brake, especially when coming to a complete stop. This could be due to worn-out brake pads or dust and small stones stuck on the surface, causing uneven friction. Additionally, if it's a new car or the brake pads were recently replaced, it might just be break-in noise. I remember once driving on the highway in the rain, and the braking noise was particularly loud—later, the mechanic said it was caused by rust on the brake rotors. In such cases, I usually don't take it lightly and promptly check the braking system, as long-term neglect could increase braking distance and pose a safety risk. I suggest you first check the thickness of the brake pads; if they're thin, replace them immediately or have a professional clean the brake rotors. Also, try to avoid sudden braking in dusty areas during normal driving to keep the braking system clean.
When I encounter brake noise, I tend to analyze the details carefully. It's often caused by issues with the brake pad material or improper installation. For example, if the pads are too hard or the rotor surface is uneven, stepping on the brakes can produce a screeching sound. Foreign objects like sand or small stones getting mixed in are also common causes, especially after driving through construction sites. Additionally, sometimes a lack of lubrication or aging components in the system can lead to friction noise. I recommend first trying to simply clean the brake area yourself or lightly sanding it with sandpaper. But if the noise persists, it's essential to have a technician conduct a thorough inspection of the electrical circuits and mechanical components. In any case, don't let the problem worsen, as brake issues can lead to skidding or failure. Remember to perform regular maintenance and apply some lubricant during each car wash to prevent rust.
