What Causes Brake Noise During Cold Start?
2 Answers
Brake noise when starting a cold engine is mainly caused by releasing the brake too slowly during initial movement, which is a common issue for many automatic transmission car owners. When the brake pedal is gradually released, the engine already has sufficient power to propel the vehicle forward, but the brake hasn't fully disengaged. As a result, the wheels that should be moving are still being held by the brake system, naturally producing abnormal noises. This is a normal phenomenon. Below are other related causes: 1. Worn hydraulic lifters or system pressure loss: A 'ticking' sound during a cold morning start or when restarting a car that has been parked for an extended period may indicate worn hydraulic lifters or system pressure loss. If the noise disappears quickly or vanishes after the engine warms up, it's not a major concern and the vehicle can continue to be used. However, if the 'ticking' sound occurs when restarting after half an hour of parking or persists when the engine is warm, the situation is more serious. In such cases, the first step is to measure the lubrication system pressure. If the pressure is normal, the issue is likely with the hydraulic lifters. 2. Worn brake discs and pads: Both brake discs and pads are high-wear components that experience friction during every brake application. Over time, natural wear occurs, and excessive wear will inevitably lead to abnormal noises. Therefore, regular inspection and replacement are necessary. Typically, brake pads should be replaced every 60,000-80,000 kilometers, while brake discs require replacement every 100,000-120,000 kilometers.
Last time when I started my car cold, the brakes made a squeaky noise, like the sound of rust. I asked my mechanic friend, and he said this is a common phenomenon. After the car sits overnight, the brake disc surface tends to condense moisture and rust, causing noise when the brake pads rub against it during the first few applications. The noise usually disappears after driving for a few minutes as the car warms up. However, if the noise is too loud or persistent, you should be cautious—it could indicate excessive brake pad wear, lack of lubrication in the caliper pins, or dust buildup leading to abnormal sounds. I recommend paying more attention to brake performance, especially in winter or humid areas. Try parking in dry spots to minimize dew effects. If the issue occurs frequently, don’t procrastinate—get it checked at a repair shop immediately before safety risks arise. I once delayed for two weeks, and my braking distance increased, nearly causing an accident. Routine maintenance, like cleaning the brake system every quarter, can prevent many minor issues.
