What Causes Brake Pad Noise at Low Speeds?

[SanCamilla]

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.

[DakotaRose]

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.

[SanAthena]

As a new car owner, I find the low-speed brake squeal really annoying, especially when backing into a parking spot—the screeching sounds like mice chirping. It was even more noticeable after the last rain. I checked some forums and learned it could be due to dirt or small stones on the brake pads causing the noise, or maybe slightly loose calipers vibrating. A friend told me this is common but shouldn't be ignored, as prolonged neglect could wear the pads thin and damage the car. I've tried rinsing the wheels myself, which sometimes helps, but it's best to get it checked at a professional shop. Now, I pay attention to weather changes—on cloudy days, I lightly press the brakes a few times to warm them up before driving, and the noise seems reduced. It’s both peace of mind and safer.

[MacBrooke]

I have some basic mechanical knowledge. Low-speed brake squealing is mostly caused by abnormal friction between the brake pads and the brake disc surface. For example, uneven wear patterns or rust from water exposure can easily cause vibration and noise at low speeds due to reduced friction. If the bolts weren't tightened properly during installation, the caliper might wobble. The solution is simple - cleaning the brake components or applying some lubricant often works. Regular inspection is key; if the pad thickness becomes too thin, replace them immediately.

[FelicityLee]

I always prioritize driving safety, and squeaky brakes at low speeds are a warning signal that should never be ignored. The most common causes are uneven brake pad wear or sticking, which can easily lead to brake failure if left unaddressed. I remember once neglecting it and almost rear-ending someone at high speed—the risk was too great. My advice is to get a professional inspection at the first sign of noise, especially during rainy seasons when moisture worsens the issue. Don’t sacrifice safety to save a little money. Replacing worn parts promptly extends brake disc life and saves costs in the long run.