What Causes the Clicking Sound When Pressing the Brake?

[DeAndres]

The reasons for the clicking sound when pressing the brake: 1. It could be the activation of the ABS anti-lock braking system. When the ABS system activates, in addition to the clicking sound, the brake pedal may also kick back, and during the braking phase, the brake pedal may slightly or slowly descend. 2. The noise could be caused by the brake pads and brake discs, with excessive wear being a common reason. 3. Foreign objects on the brake pads or brake discs could also lead to abnormal noises. Solutions: 1. If the noise is due to excessive wear, the solution is to directly replace the brake pads and brake discs. 2. If the problem cannot be identified, it is recommended to visit a 4S store or a professional auto repair shop for an initial inspection to determine the issue and proceed with targeted repairs.

[VonSara]

I've dealt with similar issues before, and there are quite a few reasons why a car makes a clunking sound when braking. If the brake pads are worn too thin or the metal backing plate is exposed, they can produce abnormal noises during friction. Uneven or rusted brake disc surfaces may also cause a clunking sound when starting to move. Additionally, if the brake caliper pins lack lubrication or are rusty, they can make a creaking noise when pressed, especially common in humid weather. Loose or deformed brake shields rubbing against the discs can also cause clunking. I recommend first checking if the brake pad thickness is less than 3 millimeters or manually shaking the brake shield to see if it's secure. I've seen several cases where car owners ignored such sounds, resulting in premature brake disc failure and unnecessary expenses. Safety comes first—if possible, get it checked at a repair shop as soon as you can.

[StJake]

My own car had the same issue a few days ago—it made a clunking sound when braking, which really worried me. The reasons are usually that the brake pads are worn down, or newly replaced pads haven't been properly broken in and thus produce noise. Additionally, if the brake discs have rust layers or are uneven, they can create a metallic clanging sound with each press of the brake. Loose protective plates are more likely to cause this problem—I once had a small stone stuck in there, and every time I braked, it made noise. I also noticed it's more pronounced in cold weather because metal components expand and contract more easily, leading to friction. The solution is simple: you can first stop the car and check the brake system's surface for any foreign objects, or try using some brake lubricant. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to replace the parts—don’t delay, as it could affect braking performance.

[VanDallas]

A clicking sound when stepping on the brake is mostly caused by issues with the brake pads or discs. For example, uneven wear on the edges of the brake pads can produce a clicking noise when braking, or a loose guard plate may be colliding. Another common cause is rusted caliper pins, which can lead to poor movement and abnormal noises. If the sound occurs only occasionally, it might be the ABS system activating, especially on slippery roads, which is normal. It's recommended to first check if the brake pad thickness is adequate; generally, if it's below 2mm, replacement is needed. There's limited action you can take yourself, so it's best to have a mechanic inspect the chassis tightness using a lift. Don't underestimate this sound—it could indicate a hidden safety hazard, and delaying may lead to more expensive repairs. Driving habits like heavy braking can also accelerate wear, so consider asking the mechanic to address this during your next maintenance service.