Why does the brake make a rattling sound on snowy days?
2 Answers
When the brake makes a rattling sound on snowy days, it is the sound produced by the ABS system in operation, which is normal. When driving on icy or snowy roads, the friction between the tires and the ground is relatively low, making it easy to trigger the ABS system when braking. ABS, or Anti-lock Braking System, is equipped in almost all household vehicles. The ABS system prevents wheel lock-up during emergency braking. If the wheels lock up during emergency braking, the driver cannot control the vehicle's trajectory via the steering wheel, leading to loss of control. When the ABS system is activated during emergency braking, the driver can slow down while maintaining control over the vehicle's path. The ABS system keeps the wheels in a state of rolling and sliding, allowing the driver to continuously adjust the vehicle's direction to avoid obstacles.
A few days ago, I drove out in heavy snow again, and every time I stepped on the brakes, there was a loud screeching sound, which really startled me. After asking a friend, I learned that this is mainly caused by snow accumulation between the brake discs and brake pads. On snowy roads, when you brake, the tires may slip, and the compressed snow makes a screeching noise, somewhat like scraping glass. If not addressed promptly, over time it could damage the brake pads or lead to longer braking distances. I encountered a similar situation last winter. Later, I went to a repair shop for a check-up, and the technician said that ice and snow particles had gotten into the braking system and needed cleaning. I also took the opportunity to replace the brake pads. Safety comes first when driving in snow. If you hear such noises, it's best to slow down, find a safe spot to stop, and check if there’s snow buildup on the brake discs. Alternatively, schedule a maintenance check as soon as possible. Checking the brakes once a month during winter can reduce such issues. Remember, avoid slamming on the brakes—try to control your speed gently to save yourself a lot of trouble.
