What Causes the Harsh Sound of Car Brakes?
3 Answers
The reasons for the harsh sound of car brakes: 1. Brake pad wear: When a car has been used for many years or has traveled a long distance, the brake pads may age and wear out, leading to abnormal noise. In this case, the brake pads should be replaced at a 4S shop. 2. Foreign objects in the brake pads: If the car has passed through muddy or bumpy roads, small stones or other impurities may get stuck in the brake pads, causing friction and abnormal noise. This situation only requires cleaning the brake pads. 3. New brake pad break-in: When new brake pads are installed, abnormal noise may occur. This usually resolves after driving for a while to break them in. If the noise persists after some time, it is advisable to visit a 4S shop or repair shop for professional inspection.
I've encountered brake squealing several times while driving, which is usually caused by the metal-on-metal friction when the brake pads wear too thin. The high-pitched noise is especially noticeable during hard braking due to increased pressure. If there are hard spots on the brake pads, like small stones stuck in them, or if the brake discs have uneven rust, the friction can sound like nails on a chalkboard. Once after rainy weather, the brake discs were damp, making the noise even more piercing. I remember that time when I drove a long distance with the brakes squealing all the way. After checking, I found the brake pads were nearly worn out, and replacing them solved the problem. It's important to regularly monitor the thickness of the brake pads. If they get too thin, they can damage the brake discs, leading to more expensive repairs. If the squealing is occasional, it might just be new brake pads breaking in, and the noise should disappear after a few days. However, if the noise persists, it's essential to visit a car repair shop to ensure driving safety. I recommend visually checking the brake pad thickness or listening for changes in sound every month.
As someone who often works on my own car, I know that screeching brake sounds are mainly caused by abnormal friction. Lack of lubrication on the brake caliper pins can cause the brake pads to rub against the bracket, producing a high-pitched noise. If the brake rotor is scratched or contaminated with oil, uneven friction can also create noise. Especially in high-humidity environments or after prolonged parking, rust on the rotor and pads can more easily lead to squealing. Another common cause is hard spots in the brake pad material, where certain areas experience higher friction intensity, causing resonant sounds. When I addressed the issue by applying grease to the caliper pins, the problem was significantly alleviated. Ignoring the noise long-term may lead to reduced braking performance or even seizing, increasing the risk of accidents. It's best to keep the brake system clean and regularly check pad thickness and rotor surface smoothness. If the noise is minor, you can wait to see if it disappears after bedding in, but persistent loud noises should not delay repairs.
