What are the causes of brake noise in the GLC?
3 Answers
The causes of brake noise in the GLC are: 1. Normal activation of ABS; 2. New brake pads; 3. Excessive wear of brake discs and brake pads. Taking the 2021 GLC as an example, it belongs to the mid-size SUV category, with body dimensions of: length 4764mm, width 1898mm, height 1642mm, wheelbase 2973mm, and fuel tank capacity of 66 liters. The 2021 GLC features multi-link independent suspension for both front and rear, with a front-engine four-wheel-drive layout. It is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 197PS, maximum power of 145kW, and maximum torque of 320Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
I drive a GLC and have encountered brake noise issues. At first, I thought it was a minor problem, but it turned out to be quite annoying. The most common causes are worn-out brake pads or metal hard spots, which create sharp noises when braking. It could also be due to rust or uneven surfaces on the brake discs, especially after rainy days or prolonged parking. Foreign objects like small stones stuck in the brake components can also cause noise. That time, I took the car to the repair shop for inspection, and the mechanic said loose or misaligned installation screws could also produce sounds. I recommend not ignoring it and getting it checked early to avoid affecting braking performance and compromising driving safety. During regular maintenance, have them inspect the brake system and clean out dust buildup to reduce such issues. I later developed a habit of checking the brake pad thickness and disc surface flatness every six months.
As someone who frequently repairs cars, I believe the causes of GLC brake noise are varied. Brake pad material issues are the most common—some pads contain high metal content, causing squeaking when friction occurs. If the brake discs are scratched or warped, it can exacerbate the noise. Installation problems, such as improperly fixed shims or missing anti-vibration washers, can lead to vibrations and noise. Additionally, prolonged vehicle parking can form an oxide layer on the surface, resulting in brief noise when starting. I’ve encountered many cases in my work and advise against DIY fixes—instead, visit a professional shop for equipment-based diagnosis. Safety is at stake here; don’t dismiss it as just a minor sound, as it may indicate bigger risks, like reduced braking efficiency. For daily parking, choose dry locations to minimize moisture buildup. Regular maintenance is key, and opting for high-quality materials when replacing pads can prevent issues.
