What Causes Brake Pad Noise at Low Speeds?
2 Answers
Brake pad noise at low speeds can be caused by brake pad break-in, sand particles entering, brake system malfunctions, severe brake disc wear, and other factors. The details are as follows: Brake Pad Break-in: Brake pad break-in is a crucial phase for new cars. It usually takes a few hundred kilometers of driving before the brakes feel more comfortable. Newly replaced brake pads require a break-in period to better integrate with the brake discs. Initially, they may feel stiff, and noise during this period is normal. Sand Particles Entering: While driving, very fine sand particles may enter between the brake pads and discs, sometimes causing noise due to friction. This usually doesn’t require repair—simply driving for a while can help the particles fall out. Brake System Malfunction: If the noise is accompanied by brake system failure, inspection and repair are necessary. Missing or damaged brake disc screws or insufficient lubrication can also cause brake noise. Severe Brake Disc Wear: Abnormal brake disc wear can occur due to dirty disc surfaces, uneven material density, excessively high operating temperatures, or mismatched installation torque. If deep grooves appear on the brake disc, it must be replaced.
I've been driving for decades, and squeaking sounds during low-speed braking are quite common. Usually, it's because dust or sand particles get stuck on the brake pad surface, causing noise when friction occurs; it could also be due to rain or humid weather causing the brake discs to rust, resulting in a squeak when you step on the brakes. If such minor issues aren't addressed promptly, uneven wear on the brake pads can occur, leading to longer braking distances at high speeds, which is very dangerous. I remember when I was younger, I tried to save money by not fixing it, and it ended up costing me hundreds more to replace the brake discs. Nowadays, I always have the shop regularly inspect the brake system and choose reputable brands when replacing brake pads to ensure they last longer. Developing good habits, like avoiding slamming on the brakes when parking, can also reduce the occurrence of unusual noises—safety on the road comes first.
