Why is the brake making a loud noise?
3 Answers
Brakes making loud noises are usually caused by rusted brake pads or excessive wear between the brake disc and brake pads. Braking is achieved through intense friction between the brake pads and the brake drum. A brake is a mechanical device used to slow down the speed of a vehicle, also known as a decelerator. The car's brake pedal is located below the steering wheel. Pressing the brake pedal activates the brake linkage, which applies pressure and transfers it to the brake pads on the brake drum, clamping the brake rotor and causing the car to slow down or stop. The manual brake in a car is located next to the gear shift and is connected to the brake lever. Common examples also include bicycle brakes, which use rod-shaped brakes fixed to the frame or disc brakes to slow down the vehicle.
I was a bit worried when I noticed a loud noise while braking, as it's mostly caused by the brake pads being worn too thin, with the warning piece inside rubbing against the brake disc. Alternatively, rust, small stones, or dust on the brake disc can produce a screeching sound when braking. The noise is more likely to occur after rain or when starting the car after a long period of parking, as the brake disc may get damp and rust. However, if the noise persists or is accompanied by vibration, there might be a more serious issue, such as loose brake components or insufficient lubrication. Ignoring this sound can reduce braking efficiency and compromise safety. Therefore, it's best to visit a professional repair shop as soon as possible to check the thickness of the brake pads. If they are severely worn, replace them; if they are normal, it might just be a foreign object issue that can be resolved by cleaning. Also, avoid slamming on the brakes during daily driving to extend the lifespan of the braking system.
From my personal experience, the sounds made when braking can be categorized into several types: high-pitched squealing is usually triggered by the brake pad wear indicator; a creaking noise might indicate impurities on the brake disc or lack of lubrication; a heavy grinding sound suggests loose components. Causes include overdue brake pads, warped discs, or oil contamination. My advice is to first check if the brake disc surface is smooth or has scratches when encountering such noises. A simple solution is to gently apply the brakes several times to clean the disc and pads. If the noise persists, replace the brake pads immediately to avoid damaging the brake disc and incurring higher repair costs. In daily maintenance, regular inspections can prevent problems, saving money and ensuring peace of mind. Pay extra attention to any changes in noise after driving in rainy seasons or on mountain roads to ensure safe driving.
