What Causes the Brake Caliper to Make Abnormal Noises?
2 Answers
Abnormal noises from the brake caliper may be caused by loosening or rusting of the guide pins. Replacing and lubricating them with grease can resolve the issue. It could also be the sound of the brake pads hitting the caliper. Additionally, if there are foreign objects between the caliper and the brake disc, abnormal noises may occur. It is best to diagnose the specific cause at a repair shop. Below is an extended introduction: 1. Brake Caliper Concept: The brake system consists of a master cylinder and brake calipers. Simply put, the master cylinder stores brake fluid and has inlet and outlet ports. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake fluid flows from the master cylinder through the pipelines to the brake calipers. When the calipers are pressurized, they push the brake pads to frictionally engage the brake drum, thereby achieving braking. 2. Symptoms of a Faulty Brake Caliper: 1) Oil leakage at the connection between the caliper and the oil pipe, and the brake pedal feels soft when pressed; 2) After pressing the brake pedal, the steering wheel noticeably pulls to one side, which is likely caused by uneven brake pad wear or a faulty caliper; 3) After pressing the brake pedal, the pedal does not rise and lacks resistance, commonly known as the brake not returning to position.
I've been driving this car for several years, and recently I've noticed a squeaking noise when braking. After checking, I found that the noise from the brake caliper is mostly due to dust or mud accumulation around the piston, or uneven wear of the brake pads. Last time I encountered this issue, I cleaned the accumulated dust myself, and the noise stopped. But if the piston is stuck or rusted, it will require replacing the part to fix it. I suggest not delaying—start by thoroughly cleaning the wheel area when washing the car, and also check if the brake fluid is sufficient to prevent failure in emergencies. Developing a habit of simple monthly self-checks, like inspecting the brake discs for any foreign objects after parking, can save a lot of trouble and repair costs. Safety comes first—ignoring such noises could lead to more serious brake failure accidents.