What Causes the Squeaking Noise When Braking at Low Speed in a BMW Imported 5 Series?
3 Answers
Explanation of the causes for squeaking noise when braking at low speed in a BMW imported 5 series: Excessive wear of brake discs and brake pads: Brake discs and brake pads are high-consumption components. Every time you brake, these two parts rub against each other, leading to natural wear over time. Improper installation of brake pads: If the brake pads are installed incorrectly or the model does not match, it may cause squeaking noises. Other causes: Faults in the calipers, brake discs, or brake pads, or the presence of foreign objects on the brake pads and brake discs. BMW, whose full Chinese name is Bavarian Motor Works Co., Ltd., is a German luxury automobile brand. Its vehicle series include the i, X, Z, and pure numeric models (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 series), as well as the M series, which is based on improvements to the existing series.
I've been driving a BMW 5 Series for ten years, and occasionally hear squeaking sounds when braking at low speeds in traffic jams. This is mostly due to brake pad issues. With older cars, the edges of the brake pads wear unevenly or accumulate dust and sand, causing uneven friction and noise during light braking at low speeds. Especially after humid weather, brake discs are prone to rust, which generates noise when braking. Additionally, insufficient lubrication or looseness in the brake calipers can also cause unusual sounds. BMWs are designed for European roads with a more robust braking system, making them more prone to minor issues during prolonged low-speed city driving. It's recommended to check the brake pad thickness and disc surface smoothness every six months, and clean or replace them promptly to avoid costly disc replacements in the future. Such issues don't affect emergency braking safety but can be annoying, so addressing them early saves hassle.
Well, I've also driven an imported BMW 5 Series, and squeaky brakes at low speeds are pretty common. Guess why? Most likely it's because the brake pads are worn thin or misaligned, making the friction more noticeable when gently braking at low speeds, like nails on a chalkboard. BMW's braking system is exquisitely designed, but at low speeds, the temperature is lower, and thermal expansion and contraction cause changes in clearance, leading to noise. If you frequently drive short distances in the city, impurities can easily mix in, exacerbating the noise. You can try cleaning the dust around the tires yourself, but it's best to have a professional check the caliper lubrication and the fit between the pads and discs. Don't put it off for too long to avoid affecting handling or costly repairs—regular maintenance is key.