What Causes Abnormal Noises When Braking?
2 Answers
The reasons for abnormal noises when braking are: worn brake pads, use of low-quality or overly hard brake pads, damaged brake pads, and incorrectly installed or mismatched brake pad models. Worn Brake Pads: Brake pads are consumable items that gradually wear thinner during vehicle use. When the friction layer is nearly depleted, an alarm mechanism—a metal limiter tab on the edge of the brake pad—will scrape against the brake disc, producing a sharp metallic friction sound as a warning. The brake pads should be replaced. Use of Low-Quality or Overly Hard Brake Pads: If low-quality or overly hard brake pads are used, they may produce noise when rubbing against the brake disc during braking. Therefore, always opt for high-quality brake pads when replacing them. Damaged Brake Pads: For older vehicles, rust may form on the brake discs or pads. In such cases, remove the rust layer with sandpaper. Alternatively, severely worn brake pads should be replaced. Incorrect Installation or Mismatched Brake Pad Models: If brake pads are installed incorrectly or the model does not match, they should be reinstalled properly. Seek assistance from a professional auto repair shop.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered brake noise issues several times. The most common cause is excessively worn brake pads, which produce a sharp squealing sound, like metal grinding against metal. Rusted or warped brake rotors can also create a clunking noise, especially noticeable after the car has been parked all day following rainy weather. Sometimes, small stones or debris get stuck between the brake pads, causing a clicking sound when braking - this isn't serious and usually resolves itself after driving faster to shake it loose. What you should be aware of is that loose brake calipers or insufficient lubrication can also cause abnormal noises, and prolonged neglect may affect braking performance. I recommend getting it checked at a professional auto repair shop sooner rather than later - don't let small issues become major problems, safety should always come first. Remember to maintain your braking system regularly to avoid many potential troubles.
