What Causes the Abnormal Noise When Braking to Stop?
3 Answers
The reasons for hearing abnormal noises when braking to stop are as follows: 1. Normal ABS activation: The ABS working process is actually a cyclic operation of locking-releasing-locking-releasing, keeping the vehicle in a state of near-lock rolling. When you slam on the brakes triggering the ABS, it will produce a clunking sound, which is normal. In this case, just press the brake pedal firmly to the floor. 2. Automatic transmission vehicles making a 'clunk' sound when braking: If you hear a 'clunk' sound between the transmission and the gear lever when pressing the brake pedal, the main reason is the electronic linkage between the braking system and the automatic transmission. Pressing the brake activates the transmission solenoid valve, producing the 'clunk' sound. This serves as a safety reminder, requiring you to press the gear lever lock button to shift gears. 3. Malfunction: If the abnormal clunking sound occurs even with light braking, or if the vehicle lacks an automatic transmission lock button, or if the sound is continuous or occurs intermittently, it indicates a potential issue. This could be due to a fault in the braking system or a loose connection in the chassis components. For safety reasons, it is advisable to have the vehicle inspected at a 4S shop as soon as possible.
I had a squeaking sound when braking for a while. At first, I thought it was a minor issue, but upon inspection, I found that the brake pads were severely worn. When the surface is completely worn down, it produces a screeching sound. In rainy or cold weather, the friction from rust on the brake discs can also cause noise, but it disappears after driving for a while. Sometimes, dust or small stones get stuck, creating a clicking sound, which I once cleaned out myself using a high-pressure water gun. More dangerous issues, like warped brake discs or uneven wear, cost me a repair bill last time. Don’t delay if you hear unusual noises—it’s best to regularly check the thickness. If it exceeds 5mm, you should replace the pads to avoid sudden brake failure.
I've encountered brake noise issues many times, and the root cause usually lies in wear. When brake pads thin out, they squeal like an alarm—that piercing sound should alert you. If the brake discs have deep grooves or rust spots, they'll creak when pressed. Another possibility is dust buildup or foreign objects lodged in, requiring cleaning. More underlying issues like poor caliper lubrication or aging brake system seals can cause uneven friction. My advice: visually inspect brake pad thickness monthly—replace them when worn thin, don't wait until completely ruined to avoid damaging the vehicle and wasting money. Safety comes first.
