Why is there a screeching sound when the car brakes?
2 Answers
When there is a screeching sound during braking, it indicates a problem with the brakes. Based on the vehicle's mileage and the wear level of the brake pads and discs: 1. For new cars, the brake pads may have hard spots, and the noise will disappear once these spots are worn down. 2. For older cars or those with heavily used brake systems, the brake pads may be too thin, causing direct friction between the brake disc and caliper. In this case, new brake pads should be replaced as soon as possible. 3. The noise could also be caused by a deformed brake disc. Brake pad maintenance tips: Check the thickness. A new brake pad is typically about 1.5cm thick, and this thickness gradually decreases with use. When the visible thickness of the brake pad is reduced to about one-third of its original thickness (approximately 0.5cm), the owner should increase the frequency of self-inspection and be ready to replace them. For some car models, due to wheel hub design, visual inspection is not possible, and the tires need to be removed for a proper check.
I've been driving for over a decade. Last time when I heard that screeching sound from the brakes, my heart skipped a beat and I immediately drove to the repair shop. Turned out the issue was the brake pads being worn too thin, causing metal to directly grind against the brake disc and produce that screaming noise. When the technician took it apart, we found some sand and small stones mixed in, probably sucked in from the road. If I had delayed dealing with it, the entire braking system could have been more severely damaged, even affecting the stopping distance, which would have posed serious safety risks. I've developed a habit of changing brake pads every 20,000 kilometers, especially since they're prone to rust after rainy days when the noise becomes more noticeable. My advice is: don't ignore small noises, get it checked when needed without delay. Early repairs can save you a significant amount on maintenance costs.
