Why Do Brake Pads Grind Against Brake Discs?
4 Answers
Reasons for brake pads grinding against brake discs: 1. There are foreign objects between the brake pads and brake discs; 2. Use of inferior quality brake pads; 3. Inconsistent size of brake pad friction blocks or misalignment during installation; 4. Poor installation of brake pad shims or lack of lubricant on the shims. The basic components in the braking system that require regular maintenance include brake pads, brake discs, and brake fluid. Brake pads are critical safety components in a car's braking system, and the effectiveness of braking largely depends on them. The friction generated between the brake pads and the wheel drum or disc converts the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat energy during the friction process, thereby achieving the purpose of slowing down or stopping the vehicle.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I think it's perfectly normal for brake pads to wear down brake discs. The braking system relies on their friction to slow down and stop the vehicle. Every time you press the brake pedal, the pads and discs make contact to create resistance, and over time, wear naturally occurs. However, pay attention to small warning signs, such as squeaking noises or feeling brake vibrations, which might indicate gravel embedded in the disc surface or a caliper not retracting properly, leading to continuous friction and accelerated wear. I encountered this during a long-distance trip—the disc got scored with grooves, and leaving it unrepaired could even affect tire balance. I recommend driving gently in daily use and avoiding sudden braking in urban areas. Check the brake pad thickness every six months; replace them when they're down to about 1mm—don't wait until the disc is ruined and costs you a fortune. Safety comes first, and regular maintenance saves both peace of mind and money while extending your car's lifespan.
Having worked in auto repair for years, I frequently encounter brake pad and disc wear issues. Structurally, they're designed to create friction and slow down the vehicle, but abnormal wear (like thinning within a week) can have multiple causes. First, foreign debris (road grit or metal shavings) getting lodged between components can score the disc surface. Second, seized caliper pins prevent proper retraction, causing constant pad-on-disc friction. Third, warped discs or improper installation lead to uneven pressure distribution. Most customers I serve ignore early warning signs like unusual noises or increased stopping distances, delaying replacement until discs are worn through - costing more and creating safety hazards. I recommend cleaning brake components every 10,000km and having professionals measure disc thickness at the first sign of braking abnormalities. Never compromise with substandard pads; OEM-quality parts last longer. Regular inspections ensure both safety and cost-effectiveness.
I'm extremely focused on car performance, and brake pads wearing against the rotors is an essential mechanism that provides braking resistance. However, if the wear occurs too quickly and affects the driving experience, it might be due to aggressive driving habits or poor material quality. I've tried upgrading to ceramic brake pads, which reduced rotor wear and provided smoother response. Related factors include excessively high rotor temperatures causing warping or high humidity accelerating rust and wear. Reducing hard braking and prolonged downhill drag braking while driving can delay these issues; regularly lubricating the calipers ensures the pads fully retract, extending the entire system's lifespan. Remember to have technicians test braking performance during each maintenance—minor adjustments can maintain high performance. In safe driving, these details are crucial for overall handling feel.
