What Causes the Brake Caliper to Make Abnormal Noises on Rough Roads?
3 Answers
Abnormal noises from the brake caliper on rough roads indicate a malfunction. More information on abnormal noises from vehicles on rough roads is as follows: 1. Chassis noises due to loose bolts: These noises are easily understood—when components that should be firmly fastened become loose, they naturally rattle and produce noise. 2. Noises from the exhaust pipe: Loose screws on the heat shield near the exhaust pipe, loose or leaking connections at various joints of the exhaust pipe, and rust or damage to the exhaust pipe can all cause abnormal noises. 3. Issues with the braking system: Worn brake pads, uneven wear between the brake disc and brake pads, among other reasons, can lead to abnormal braking noises. Brake pad issues are one of the main causes of abnormal noises, as brake pads wear out and are consumable parts that require regular replacement. Brake pads should be considered for replacement when their thickness wears down to less than 3mm, with 2mm being the absolute limit for replacement. Generally, front brake pads have a service life of around 50,000 kilometers, while rear brake discs and pads last about 120,000 kilometers. Additionally, if the brake pads are of poor quality (too hard), they can also produce abnormal noises. Besides brake pads and discs, malfunctions in the brake caliper, master cylinder, or other components can also generate abnormal noises.
My car has been running for over a decade, and I've encountered brake caliper noises on rough roads several times. The sound resembles metal scraping, usually caused by loose calipers or worn guide pins—vibrations intensify on bumpy roads, leading to loose screws or displaced components colliding and making noise. Additionally, improper brake pad installation or missing anti-noise shims are common issues, and accumulated dirt can exacerbate the problem. I remember once during an off-road trip, the noise startled me, and a subsequent check at the repair shop revealed rusted guide pins. Such problems should be fixed promptly to prevent more severe brake disc wear. Daily driving safety comes first, so it's advisable to regularly check guide pin lubrication and caliper fixing screws.
I've done a lot of auto repair work and am very familiar with diagnosing such abnormal noises. The brake caliper making noise on rough roads is mainly caused by abnormal friction noise due to aging of the guide pin kit or loose caliper mounting bolts. The vibration on bumpy roads is strong, and metal parts colliding can easily produce sharp sounds. It's also important to check whether the brake pads are wearing evenly, as damaged anti-noise shims can increase decibels. I've seen many car owners neglect this, which ultimately affects braking response time. When inspecting it yourself, first ensure that the caliper shakes flexibly after the vehicle is lifted, and replace the guide pin if there is any play. Preventive measures include cleaning the brake components every 5,000 kilometers.
