What Causes the Clicking Sound When Braking at Low Speed?
3 Answers
The reasons for the clicking sound when braking at low speed are: 1. Excessive wear of the brake disc and brake pads; 2. Abnormal installation of the brake pads; 3. Presence of foreign objects on the brake pads or brake disc; 4. Poor retraction of the caliper can cause prolonged friction between the disc and pads. Methods for maintaining brake pads include: 1. Regularly check the thickness and wear of the brake pads, and ensure they retract smoothly; 2. Replace them promptly when wear reaches the limit to avoid reduced braking effectiveness and compromised driving safety; 3. Use brake pads provided by original equipment manufacturers; 4. Use specialized tools to retract the brake caliper when replacing; 5. After replacement, press the brake pedal several times to eliminate the gap between the pads and the brake disc.
I find that a clicking sound when braking at low speeds is quite common, especially in older cars like the one I drive. It often occurs when stopping after a cold start. The main reasons could be uneven brake disc surfaces, slight deformation due to thermal expansion and contraction, or uneven wear on the brake pads causing friction noise. Additionally, loose small components in the suspension system, such as ball joints or shock absorbers, can also produce a clicking sound when turning at low speeds. It's important to develop a habit of checking for tire vibrations. If accompanied by steering wheel shaking, promptly visit a repair shop to resurface the brake discs or replace the brake pads. Regular maintenance can save on major repair costs, with safety being the top priority. Ignoring such minor noises can eventually lead to unstable braking, posing significant risks while driving. Personally, I address any unusual sounds immediately to prevent small issues from escalating, and my car has been kept in good condition as a result.
As someone who frequently repairs cars, I've handled many cases of low-speed brake clunking, mostly due to loose brake pad installation or foreign objects on the surface. For example, rust or oil buildup on the brake disc can cause clunking sounds during friction; aging or loose components in the suspension system, such as bushings, can also produce noise during low-speed hard braking. It's best to stop the car, engage the handbrake, and lightly press the pedal to test if the vibration worsens. I recommend going directly to a professional shop for inspection, where specialized equipment can measure disc flatness or suspension stability. Don't attempt DIY fixes—improper adjustments could damage core ABS components. During maintenance, focus on cleaning components and regularly lubricating moving joints to extend lifespan and reduce noise. For safety, such abnormal sounds are often precursors to failure, so early repairs can prevent high-speed malfunctions.
