What causes the squeaking noise when braking in a BMW X3?

[VonJoseph]

BMW X3 squeaking noise when braking can be caused by the following reasons: Brake pad quality: Substandard brake pads can produce abnormal noises during braking and may also damage the brake discs. It is necessary to replace them with genuine brake pads at an authorized 4S dealership. Foreign objects in brake discs: When driving on complex road conditions, wheels can easily fling up stones or other foreign objects. If a stone gets stuck between the brake pad and brake disc, it will cause noise during braking. The foreign object should be promptly removed. Severely worn brake discs: When brake pads rub against severely worn brake discs, they can also produce abnormal noises. The brake discs should be replaced in a timely manner. Severely worn brake pads: After prolonged use, brake pads gradually wear thin due to continuous friction. Excessively thin brake pads not only reduce braking effectiveness but also harden in material, causing noise during braking. They should be replaced promptly.

[Donna]

I've been driving my BMW X3 for several years and have experienced brake noise several times. The most common cause is when the brake pads wear down to their limit, and the metal parts scrape against the brake discs, producing a sharp screeching sound, especially noticeable when stopping in congested areas. Another situation is when the car is parked overnight in rainy or humid conditions, causing the brake disc surface to rust. The noise disappears after a few brake applications as the rust is worn off. Sometimes, foreign objects like small stones or dust get stuck between the brake pads, causing intermittent noises, which requires disassembly for cleaning. New cars or newly replaced brake pads may also make noise during the break-in period, but this usually goes away after a few hundred kilometers. I recommend not ignoring brake noises. First, check the pad thickness and disc surface, and perform regular maintenance every 10,000 kilometers to prevent minor issues from escalating into major safety concerns.

[DelIsabela]

When the BMW X3 makes abnormal noises while braking, I feel tense because it may indicate a risk of reduced braking performance. For example, if the brake pads are worn out, the metal backing plate directly rubs against the rotor, leading to longer braking distances. Another potential cause is insufficient lubrication or misalignment of the brake calipers, which can produce squeaking sounds and affect driving control. If the brake rotors are uneven or scratched, the vibration and noise during braking may intensify, potentially causing further damage. Upon hearing persistent noises, immediate action is necessary. I opt for a comprehensive diagnosis at a professional shop, where they use instruments to check rotor flatness and pad wear, ensuring the braking system is reliable and free of hidden risks. Safety always comes first—never take unnecessary risks over minor issues.

[DeEzra]

When I first bought my BMW X3, I occasionally heard strange noises when braking, which confused me as a novice with little experience. A friend explained that this is common during the break-in period of a new car. The new brake pads have rough surfaces or contain impurities, causing squeaking sounds when pressed, but the noise usually disappears after driving a few hundred kilometers. However, if the car is parked for too long and the brakes get damp and rusty, the noise is more noticeable in the morning but short-lived. I observed that if the noise becomes constant, increases, or turns sharp, it might indicate hardened or worn brake pads that need replacement. This reminded me to pay attention to road debris while driving to avoid minor issues escalating. Even small things like this encouraged me to learn more about car maintenance, and I plan to go for my first scheduled service next month for a detailed check-up.