What is the reason for the grinding sound when the brake is fully pressed?
2 Answers
The reason for the grinding sound when the brake is fully pressed is that the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) has intervened in the braking system. This could be due to slippery road conditions or the activation of the hill descent control function. When descending a steep slope, the same sound may occur. The primary role of the ABS system is to prevent wheel lock-up and loss of steering control, rather than reducing braking distance. It can be understood that whenever there is a tendency for the wheels to lock up, the ABS will intervene. Without the assistance of the ABS system, if the wheels lock up during braking, the rolling friction between the wheels and the ground turns into sliding friction. At this point, the steering wheel can no longer control the direction of the wheels, leading to potential accidents.
That day on the highway, when I slammed on the brakes, I suddenly heard a grinding sound under my feet, which startled me. Later, I learned that it was the ABS system at work. ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, which prevents the tires from locking up and skidding during emergency braking by rapidly pulsing the brakes, creating that grinding noise—especially common on slippery roads. This is a completely normal mechanism to ensure the car doesn’t lose control. However, if the brakes always make such noises, especially if accompanied by vibrations or screeching sounds, it might indicate that the brake pads are worn thin or the brake discs are scratched. Excessive wear can damage the entire system. For safety, it’s wise to check the brake thickness every six months and replace them early to save both hassle and money—don’t wait until a major repair is needed. Road safety is no small matter; developing good maintenance habits is crucial. I often share these tips with friends to help them avoid unnecessary troubles.
