What Causes Brake Disc Noise During Low-Speed Driving?
4 Answers
Here are the reasons for brake disc noise during low-speed driving: 1. Brake noise during low-speed driving is likely due to severely worn brake pads. The wear indicator may emit a sharp noise as a reminder for replacement. Alternatively, excessive wear on the brake disc or brake drum, making them too thin, can also cause noise. Another possibility is newly replaced brake pads that do not properly fit the contact surface of the brake disc or drum, resulting in point or line contact that generates noise. 2. Generally, issues with the caliper, brake disc, or brake pads can all produce this noise. If the noise persists, the first step is to check for any dragging brakes. Poor caliper retraction can cause prolonged friction between the disc and pads, leading to noise under certain conditions.
I've encountered the issue of brake disc noise during low-speed driving several times, and it's quite bothersome. It usually happens when the car has just been washed or after being parked for a few days in rainy weather. When I apply the brakes at low speeds, I hear a creaking sound, like metal rubbing against metal. I've asked a few fellow car owners, and they said it could be due to surface rust on the brake discs or debris like sand and small stones getting stuck in the brake pads. New cars or those with recently replaced brake pads might also experience this during the break-in period, so there's no need to panic—it might go away after a few more brake applications. However, if the noise persists continuously, it's worth paying attention to, as it could indicate issues like loose calipers or uneven brake pad wear. Don't let minor problems escalate; it's safer to have it checked at a repair shop promptly. Safety is no small matter—unusual noises might suggest reduced braking efficiency, which could compromise driving safety.
If you enjoy DIY, you can start with a simple self-check when encountering low-speed brake squealing. Inspect the brake disc surface for obvious rust or oil stains. For minor rust, gently sand it off with fine sandpaper, but avoid excessive force to prevent scratches. Also, check if small stones or other debris are stuck in the brake pad gaps—clearing them might help. Try to avoid muddy roads when driving to reduce the chance of debris getting in. However, I must remind you that the brake system is highly complex, and disassembling or repairing it can be dangerous. If you lack experience, it's best left to professional mechanics to avoid making things worse. Last time, I helped my neighbor clean mud off their brake disc, and the noise disappeared, saving them a small repair bill.
A seasoned driver tells you that low-speed brake disc noise is often a minor issue. For example, when brake pads are newly replaced and haven't worn evenly yet, or when the disc surface rusts after parking in the rain, a few gentle brakes at low speed can usually alleviate the noise. The sound typically fades after the break-in period or a few days of dry weather driving, so there's no need to worry. However, if the noise is sharp, screeching, or persistent, it might indicate aged brake components or improper installation, warranting a professional inspection and adjustment. Regular maintenance checks by a mechanic to test the brakes can help keep the system in good condition and extend its lifespan.
