What Causes Brake Noise in Winter?
2 Answers
Possible reasons for brake noise in winter are as follows: 1. The car is new. Since the brake pads and brake discs are still in the break-in period, squeaking or other abnormal noises may occur during braking. This is a normal phenomenon and can be ignored; it usually disappears automatically after driving a few hundred kilometers. 2. Water in the brake discs on rainy days. In wet conditions, the brake pads and discs are damp, making it easier for noise to occur during low-speed braking. The noise will stop once the moisture dries up. 3. Rust on the brake discs or pads. If the car has been unused for too long, dust or rust may accumulate on the brake discs and pads, leading to abnormal noise during braking. This is also normal. 4. Worn-out brake pads needing replacement. If the brake noise persists for several days and becomes louder and more frequent, it may indicate that the brake pads need to be replaced.
Last winter, my car's brakes kept making a creaking noise when I drove, and at first I thought the car was broken. Later, I learned that in cold weather, brake discs are prone to frost or rust spots, and the increased friction when braking causes unusual noises. Low temperatures make the metal harder and contract, and rain or snow can cause water to freeze in the wheel wells, bringing in small stones or ice chips that get stuck in the brake pads. The solution is simple: let the car idle for a few minutes after starting in the morning to warm up before driving; rinse the wheels after snow to remove debris; check the wear of the brake pads and replace them if they're worn out. I also found that lightly pressing the brakes a few times can grind off temporary rust layers, reducing the noise. But don't take it lightly—persistent noise could hide issues like insufficient brake fluid or system problems, and with slippery winter roads, regular maintenance is even more important. Safe driving is key, and addressing issues early saves trouble.
