What Causes the Squealing Noise When Lightly Braking at Low Speeds?
2 Answers
Low-speed braking squealing noise may be caused by sand or other foreign objects between the brake pads and brake discs, or excessive wear of the brake pads, leading to the exposure of the friction material's fixed points and friction with the brake discs or brake drums, resulting in abnormal noise. Below are the relevant details: 1. Replacing Brake Pads: First, check if the brake pads are nearly worn out (indicated by the alarm piece). If the brake pads are worn out, a new set of brake pads needs to be installed. Typically, brake pads have an alarm iron pin; when the brake pads wear to a certain extent, the iron pin will rub against the brake disc, causing a metal friction squeal. If the pads are new, check for any foreign objects trapped between the brake disc and the pads. 2. Inspection and Repair: If the abnormal noise is accompanied by brake system failure, inspection and repair are necessary. Missing or damaged fixing screws of the brake disc or the need for lubrication can also cause brake noise. Abnormal wear of the brake disc can be due to a dirty surface, uneven material density of the brake disc, excessively high working temperatures, or mismatched installation torque. If deep grooves are worn into the brake disc, it is essential to replace it with a new one.
When it comes to hearing a sharp screeching sound when lightly pressing the brake at low speeds, I’ve encountered it a few times myself, and it’s quite annoying. Common causes include brake pads being worn too thin, causing a squeaking sound during friction, or brake discs rusting—for example, after the car has been parked for a few days in rainy weather, the disc surface rusts, and light braking can produce grinding noises. Additionally, small stones or sand might get stuck in the brake pads, causing vibrations and noise when braking at low speeds. Ignoring this issue could worsen wear, affect braking performance, and pose safety risks. I recommend getting your brake system checked as soon as possible. Visit a professional repair shop to measure the pad thickness and disc flatness. If the pads are too thin, replace them—it’s not expensive and will save you hassle. By the way, after parking in humid areas, lightly pressing the brakes a few times before driving can help remove rust and prevent this issue, ensuring smoother driving. Don’t forget to regularly inspect brake components during routine maintenance—this habit can prevent many sudden failures and give you peace of mind while driving.
