What Causes Brake Pad Friction Noise?

[MacMalachi]

Disc brakes produce friction noise due to reasons such as the brake pads being in the break-in period, the presence of metal particles in the brake pads, excessive wear of the brake discs and pads, or deformation of the brake discs. Solutions for disc brake friction noise: Remove the brake pads and sand off the rust layer, or replace the brake pads if they are severely worn; have the work done at a professional auto repair shop. For safety, timely maintenance is essential as the braking system directly affects vehicle safety and is a high-wear component. Regular maintenance checks and part replacements are recommended—brake pads typically need replacement every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers, and brake discs every 100,000 to 120,000 kilometers. The function of brakes is to reduce speed or bring the vehicle to a stop. The working principle involves converting the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat energy through friction between the brake pads and brake drum, as well as between the tires and the ground. Disc brakes consist of a brake disc connected to the wheel and a brake caliper at the disc's edge. During braking, high-pressure brake fluid pushes the brake pads to clamp the disc, creating the braking effect. Disc brakes are also known as rotor brakes and come in two types: standard disc brakes and ventilated disc brakes.

[Almeida]

I've encountered the issue of brake pads making squeaking noises several times while driving, which is quite annoying. The most common cause is when the brake pads are worn thin and need to be replaced. Alternatively, if the brake discs are uneven, scratched, or grooved, they can produce squeaking sounds when rubbing. Sometimes, foreign objects like small stones or dust get stuck between the brake pads and discs, causing noise. Loose or rusted calipers, as well as improper installation, can also be culprits. I've learned that this issue shouldn't be ignored because continuing to drive may accelerate component wear and even pose a risk of brake failure. I recommend getting it checked at a 4S shop or repair shop as soon as you hear the noise—safety first. Additionally, regular maintenance of the brake system is crucial to prevent such issues.

[Raquel]

When my new car was just a year old, I experienced brake squealing, which really worried me at the time. Later, I asked a friend and learned that it’s mainly due to worn brake pads or new pads not being properly bedded in. Dirty or rusted brake rotors can also cause noise, especially after rain. Other causes include foreign objects like small debris getting stuck, or caliper pistons not retracting properly, leading to pad drag. As a beginner, I think it’s best not to tinker with it yourself and instead consult a professional for peace of mind. Safety-wise, squealing may indicate reduced braking power, and waiting until something goes wrong is too late. So, I’ve made it a habit to check my tires and brakes monthly to avoid costly repairs down the line.

[ElizabethRose]

As a car enthusiast, I often help friends with similar issues. Brake squealing is mostly caused by worn-out pads reaching their limit—simply replacing them will fix it. Or, if the rotor surface is uneven, it can produce noise when rubbing after high-temperature deformation. Foreign objects getting stuck is a common cause, like dirt clumps or metal shavings causing a rattling sound. Dust buildup in the caliper can make the piston less responsive, leading to dragging noises. If the pads are installed at a wrong angle, new ones may squeak right from the start. I recommend testing the brakes lightly in a safe spot during daily driving—if there's any unusual noise, address it early. Don’t skimp and buy low-quality pads, as they’re more prone to issues and can damage the rotors. Regular cleaning of brake components also helps a lot.

[StKyle]

I drive long distances to and from work every day, and what I dread most is hearing that screeching sound when parking. Usually, it's because the brake pads are worn out, and the rotor surface is severely scratched. Or sometimes, sand or debris gets stuck, causing a harsh noise when braking. Another issue could be the caliper not gripping properly or failing to retract, leading to the pads continuously rubbing against the rotor. This isn't just annoying—it's costly too. If ignored, you might end up replacing the entire brake rotor, doubling the expense. As a commuter, I spend two minutes every week checking tire pressure and brake condition. Catching issues early saves money and hassle. Problems are more likely during significant weather changes, so after rain, make sure drainage is clear. Don’t gamble with safety—if you hear any unusual sounds, schedule a check-up right away.