What are the causes of brake disc noise?
3 Answers
The causes of brake disc noise include improper installation of brake pads and product factors such as material. Below are the relevant explanations: Improper installation of brake pads: It may be that the mechanic installed the brake pads incorrectly. Upon removal, you can see that only part of the brake pad surface shows friction marks. In this case, it is necessary to go to a 4S shop to remove and reinstall them. Product factors such as material causing noise: For example, if the brake pad material is too hard or of poor quality. Although the use of asbestos-containing brake pads is prohibited, some small manufacturers still produce and sell them. Semi-metallic asbestos-free brake pads have a longer service life and are environmentally friendly and beneficial to human health, but their material is relatively hard. In contrast, asbestos brake pads are softer, so even if there are scratches on the brake disc, they usually do not make noise, and the braking feels smoother.
I found that there are quite a few reasons for brake disc noise. Mainly, when the brake pads wear too thin, they produce a screeching sound, especially after rain when the disc surface rusts more severely. Also, dust or small stones stuck between the pads and the disc can cause noise, which I encountered last year and it really made me nervous. During inspection, pay attention to whether the braking system is aging or lacks lubrication, and avoid parking in areas with heavy dust. Regularly cleaning the wheel area is quite effective, making the brakes smoother. Don’t forget to replace worn parts in time, such as checking every two years, otherwise it could affect driving safety. A simple solution is to lightly press the brakes a few times to remove rust buildup, but if that doesn’t work, you’ll need to visit a repair shop. Ignoring it during safe driving may lead to brake failure, so I recommend developing a habit of checking just in case.
Having worked in this field for many years, I've found that most brake noises are caused by issues with the brake pads. Hard spots or material mismatches can lead to squeaking sounds. Sometimes, uneven rotor surfaces or oil contamination can also cause similar noises, sounding like scraping metal. Loose screws during installation can also be a factor, so I always remind people to use standard parts and seek professional help. Don't underestimate these noises—they indicate problems in the friction areas, which can easily lead to longer braking distances. You can check the rotor's wear level or try using a cleaner spray for temporary relief. Keeping the wheels clean in the long term is crucial, and I recommend visiting a repair shop at least once a year. Ignoring these issues carries significant risks, and while fixing them isn't expensive, it brings peace of mind.
