Why does the Chevrolet Cruze's brake make abnormal noises and how to fix it?
2 Answers
Abnormal noises in the Chevrolet Cruze's brake are usually caused by issues within the braking system itself or external debris. The primary reasons include the use of inferior brake pads or uneven wear of the brake disc. More details are as follows: 1. Use of inferior brake pads: Genuine brake pads are typically made of semi-metallic and semi-asbestos materials, featuring a high friction coefficient, stable physical properties, and good heat dissipation. Inferior brake pads, however, are harder in material, have improper metal-to-asbestos ratios, and may cut corners in manufacturing. As a result, they are prone to producing abnormal noises after some use. 2. Uneven wear of the brake disc: When measured with tools, excessive radial runout beyond standard values may be found. Additionally, uneven surfaces may develop during use, leading to abnormal noises when the brake pedal is pressed. 3. If the brake pads do not wear down to the edges of the brake lining, a raised ridge may form over time. When the brake pads are replaced or reinstalled with slight misalignment, abnormal noises can occur due to incomplete contact between the brake pads and the disc. Other possible causes include the presence of hard debris like sand or stones between the brake disc and pads. Driving through water, mud, or off-road conditions can also lead to mud and sand adhering to areas like the brake caliper piston or brake pad gaps, which may produce abnormal noises while driving.
I've been driving for over a decade, and brake squealing in the Cruze is quite common, mostly due to excessive brake pad wear or metal hard spots rubbing. If the brake discs are rusted or warped, the noise becomes more noticeable on bumpy roads. Newly replaced brake pads that haven't been properly broken in can also squeak, just like my old car. The solution is simple: first, check the brake pad thickness yourself—replace them if they're thin; clean the brake discs and calipers, using specialized spray or sandpaper for light grinding. Don't delay fixing this issue—minor cases lead to annoying noise, while severe ones affect braking performance. Safety comes first. The Cruze's braking system is decent, but regular maintenance can prevent squealing. I recommend checking the brake condition every six months. Avoid sudden braking in daily driving—gentler stops extend component lifespan, saving money and hassle.
