What Causes the Friction Noise While Driving a Car?

[DelElena]

Here are the specific reasons for friction noise while driving a car: 1. Excessive wear of brake pads: When brake pads become too thin, the metal is exposed, causing the sensor on the brake pad to be worn out and trigger an alarm. Additionally, the friction between the metal of the brake pad and the brake disc can produce noise. 2. Presence of gravel between the brake disc and brake pad: This situation usually occurs after the vehicle has driven through water, where mud and sand are carried into the gaps. When the brake pads and brake disc rub against each other, the temperature can reach as high as 800-1200 degrees, making the brake pads very soft. Small stones can easily embed into the brake pads, producing a sharp friction noise. 3. Brake drag: Due to the brake piston not returning to its normal position after braking, the brake pads remain in a braking state, which can also cause certain abnormal noises during high-speed driving. 4. Abnormal wear of the brake disc or brake pads: Deformation, damage, dents, or bulges on the brake disc caused by external forces, as well as uneven wear of the brake pads leading to irregular surfaces, can also result in friction noise when the brakes are applied.

[TylerFitz]

Last time I was driving on the highway, I heard a buzzing friction-like sound which worried me a lot, so I quickly pulled over to check. It turned out the wheel bearing was damaged. This sound resembled metal grinding, especially more noticeable when turning. Once the bearing is damaged, continuing to drive could lead to wheel lock-up or loss of control, which is quite dangerous. It's best to go to a repair shop promptly, where mechanics can diagnose it accurately using professional tools. By the way, similar sounds might also come from excessively worn brake pads, where the metal piece is exposed and grinds against the brake disc, producing a sharp noise. In short, never ignore unusual noises while driving as they pose significant safety hazards. I recommend getting it checked as soon as possible; delaying could turn a small issue into a major problem with higher repair costs.

[LeEsther]

When I hear friction noises while driving, I usually try to identify the cause myself first. For example, if the sound comes from near the wheels, I stop the car and manually rotate the wheels. If they feel stiff or make a rustling sound, it's likely a bearing issue or a small stone stuck in there. I also check the tires for uneven wear or unusual marks, as these can easily cause friction noises. I've done a few DIY fixes myself—simple tasks like changing brake pads are manageable, but deeper issues like loose suspension components are beyond my capability and require professional tools. For safety, if I'm unsure about the source of the noise, I don't hesitate to drive straight to a repair shop. Remember, small oversights can lead to big troubles, so paying regular attention to your car's condition can save a lot of hassle.

[LawsonDella]

When a friction noise occurs while driving, my first thought is safety. If it's related to the brakes, such as worn-out brake pads or abnormal calipers, it could lead to increased stopping distance or even failure. In such cases, it's best to slow down immediately, pull over, and inspect the vehicle rather than continuing to drive. A sound like rustling could also indicate a wheel bearing issue, and ignoring it for a long time may damage the vehicle's structure and affect handling. As a car owner, I perform regular maintenance to minimize such risks, as the health of the vehicle is a matter of life and death.