What are the causes of brake noise at low speeds?
2 Answers
Brake noise at low speeds may be caused by three parts: the brake pads, calipers, and brake discs. Below are the specific reasons for brake noise at low speeds: 1. The brake pads may have been installed incorrectly by the mechanic: you can go to a 4S shop to have them removed and reinstalled. 2. Hard objects on the road, such as gravel or metal debris, may have gotten stuck in the brake pads when braking: you can go to a 4S shop for cleaning. 3. The friction block sizes of the brake pads may be inconsistent: you may need to resurface the brake discs first. If not resurfaced, you can drive for a while until the marks match, and the noise will stop. 4. The brake pad material may be too hard or of poor quality: you will need to replace them with new brake pads.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered the issue of low-speed brake squealing quite often. The most common cause is excessively worn brake pads, where the metal backing plate contacts the brake disc, producing a squeaking sound – especially noticeable when turning in parking lots. Foreign debris trapped between components is another frequent problem, like small stones sticking between pads and discs after driving on muddy roads, which squeal during low-speed friction. Rust formation shouldn't be overlooked either; brake discs get wet after rain and easily develop rust layers that create grinding noises upon startup. Loose caliper springs or improper installation may also cause rattling sounds. The noise becomes more prominent at low speeds because wind noise drowns it out at higher velocities. My advice: don't delay. Get to a repair shop promptly for inspection and pad replacement – safety comes first. I procrastinated last time and nearly had an accident, fortunately addressing it early enough.