What Causes the Noise When Braking After a Car Has Been Parked for a Long Time?
3 Answers
Car parked for a long time may produce noise when braking due to abnormal brake pad conditions. Below is detailed information about automotive braking: 1. Overview: Braking, also known as deceleration, refers to the action of stopping or reducing the speed of moving locomotives, vehicles, and other transportation tools or machinery. The general principle of braking is to fix a wheel or disc on the high-speed shaft of the machine, and install corresponding brake shoes, belts, or discs on the machine base, which generate braking torque under external force. 2. Brake Pads: Automotive brake pads, also known as brake linings, refer to the friction materials fixed on the brake drum or brake disc rotating with the wheel. The friction linings and friction blocks bear external pressure to generate friction, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration.
My car was parked in the garage for two months without being driven. Last week when I drove it out, I heard a squeaking sound when I stepped on the brakes. After asking a mechanic friend, I learned that it was due to rust on the brake discs. When a car is parked for a long time, moisture can corrode the surface of the brake discs, forming a layer of rust. When you step on the brakes, the brake pads rub against these rust spots, producing noise, similar to a metal scraping sound. There's also a possibility that dust accumulates in the brake system, obstructing normal movement. The noise gradually disappeared after driving for about a day, but it's recommended to avoid long-term parking. It's best to drive the car for a short trip every week to keep the brake discs dry and lubricated. Otherwise, severe rust can accelerate wear on the brake pads and affect safety. Regular vehicle inspections are key to preventing such issues, as problems during emergency braking can be dangerous.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I've encountered this situation quite often. When a vehicle has been parked for a long time, stepping on the brakes can produce noise, mainly because the brake system is exposed to the elements, and moisture causes the brake discs to rust; the squealing noise occurs when the rust is scraped off during braking. Accumulation of dust or foreign objects is also common, affecting the movement of components. It's advisable to park in a dry place and start the vehicle regularly for short trips to keep the system operational. If the noise is excessively loud or persistent, check for worn brake pads or insufficient lubrication—safety comes first, so don't delay addressing the issue. When I was younger, I ignored it once, only to later discover that the noise was accompanied by vibrations. Timely repairs helped me avoid major problems, and now I make it a habit to check my vehicle's maintenance records every month.