What Causes Brake Noise When Starting?

[LeOlivia]

Reasons and solutions for brake noise when starting: 1. New car or recently replaced brake pads producing noise This is usually because the brake pads and brake discs are brand new and haven't gone through the break-in period, resulting in abnormal sounds. Solution: The noise should disappear after some use, which is normal. 2. Foreign objects between brake pads and brake discs causing noise While driving, sand particles may enter between the brake pads and discs, sometimes causing friction noise. Solution: Clean the foreign objects from the brake system. 3. Low temperature causing brake noise Low-frequency noise when braking during cold starts. Due to low temperatures, rubber components in the chassis suspension become stiff, and some may vibrate with the frame, causing low-frequency noise from the brake calipers or suspension system. Solution: Drive for a while until the vehicle warms up. 4. Loose or aged suspension/chassis components causing brake noise Missing or damaged brake disc mounting screws can also cause brake noise. Loose or aged components like shock absorber mounting screws, stabilizer bar rubber bushings, or ball joints can cause brake noise while driving. Solution: Regular inspection and replacement. 5. Brake disc corrosion causing brake noise Brake discs and pads may corrode due to water exposure or prolonged parking, especially after long-term handbrake use, causing adhesion between discs and pads and initial driving noise. Solution: Inspect and replace brake discs. 6. Severely worn brake pads/discs causing abnormal noise Brake pads usually have wear indicators. When pads wear to their limit, the indicator rubs against the disc, producing noise. Worn brake discs may also cause noise due to surface contamination, uneven material density, excessive operating temperature, or improper installation torque. Solution: Inspect and replace brake pads or discs.

[DeCarmen]

I've encountered quite a few cases of clunking sounds when braking. The most common cause is a thin layer of rust on the brake discs, especially when starting the car after it's been parked for a day or two in humid conditions - the rust creates a screeching noise when braking. Another major issue is when brake pads age and harden or develop frayed edges, causing squeaking sounds against the discs. Small stones or debris lodged in the pads can also produce similar noises. Some vehicles experience more pronounced sounds when cold due to insufficient lubrication or lack of grease in brake calipers, causing pins to stick. Safety shouldn't be compromised - prolonged neglect may lead to disc scoring or reduced braking performance. I recommend warming up the car for a few minutes and applying the brakes repeatedly to see if the noise disappears. If it persists, gently sand the pad edges with fine sandpaper or seek professional cleaning at a workshop. Additionally, parking in less humid areas can help reduce rust formation.

[SanJanelle]

A loud screeching noise when braking after starting the car is mainly caused by abnormal friction between the brake disc and pads: oxidation and rust debris on the disc surface, common after parking in humid weather, produce noise when rubbed off; brake pads that are too hard or uneven may also squeak when cold and not properly seated; another cause is insufficient lubrication in the braking system, such as dry or stuck caliper pivots or pins. Other minor issues include brake pads worn to their limit or foreign objects lodged in them. If the noise is brief and mild, it doesn't affect driving, but sharp and repeated sounds should be taken seriously as they may accelerate component wear and impact braking performance. From my experience, after rainy days, driving out and gently applying the brakes a few times at low speed to warm up the discs and pads can reduce the noise; regular checks of pad thickness and cleaning the calipers are crucial, along with applying specialized lubricant to the pivot areas as a preventive measure. If the problem persists, visit a repair shop—never attempt DIY disassembly to avoid damaging other components.

[StEden]

Brake noise upon initial application is mostly caused by three reasons: first, rust on the brake discs that creates friction noise when starting after prolonged parking in the rain; second, uneven material or excessive wear of the brake pads leading to poor contact; third, dust or small stones stuck on the pads being squeezed. These issues are usually more noticeable when the car is cold and tend to improve after a few minutes of driving as the temperature rises. While not particularly dangerous, it can be annoying. It is recommended to check the cleanliness of the brake discs and pads. If the pads are worn thin, they should be replaced. Additionally, avoid parking in muddy areas as a preventive measure.