Brake noises can be frustrating and confusing. Do you have a strange noise every time you brake? If so, what could be causing it? In this blog post, we will discuss 7 possible causes of brake noises and what to do about them.
Outline:
- Rattle
- Dragging
- Squealing
- Thumping
- Grinding
- Brake Fade
- Vibrating
- Conclusion
Rattle
This brake noise is a common apprehension for drivers. It usually occurs when you let up off the pedal and is akin to the sound of shaking a can of spray paint. The main reason for the rattle noise is the pads, which is fine. Brake pads can rattle from time to time because of heat expansion, particularly if they were set up with no anti-rattle shims. Remember, though, that this sound must not be consistent and never occur while your foot is on the brake pedal. If you notice a rattling noise each time you hit the brakes, take your car to a professional brake repair technician for inspection. Your safety is at stake, so ignoring the issue is not an option.
Dragging
If the brake sound you hear sounds like something is pulling or towing under your car, generally from the back, even if sometimes it can happen up front too, you must take your vehicle to an auto repair shop. Usually, the dragging noise is because of the brake drum or brake caliper that has either seized or not released once you take your foot off the brake pedal. This results in the shoe or pad keeping in contact with the brake mechanism while driving. In due course, it gets worn and takes a toll on your car’s fuel mileage and performance.
Squealing
A squealing sound from the brakes is generally caused by one of two things. First, a set of tabs connected to the brake pads slowly becomes exposed when the pad materials have been damaged to the extent that they must be replaced. Second, the metal tab rubs against the brake rotor steel and makes that squealing sound as a reminder that it is time to head to the garage. However, some pads don't have a tab. So, the sound indicates down to the pad's metal backing plate, pushed next to the spinning rotor. This is an emergency that needs prompt and immediate attention.
Thumping
If you hear this sound while braking, typically originating from the front wheels, it can be a sign that the brake rotors have gone out of shape. In other words, that could mean they have become warped. The noise can also be caused by the buildup of pad material on the brake rotor. Unlike other issues, this can be machined off, so replacing the whole unit is not required.
Grinding
A grinding noise while braking is a serious concern and must be addressed immediately. There are two leading causes of grinding. When the brakes produce a loud grinding sound after pressing the pedal, the rotor disc is forced against the part of the caliper. Usually, this is due to extreme wear on the rotors or brake pads. Make sure to address this issue right away if you don’t want to find yourself in a life-threatening situation. Also, keep in mind that ignoring it can take a huge toll on your finances.
Another reason behind a grinding noise is a foreign object stuck somewhere in the caliper. In this scenario, the brakes usually produce a constant screeching or grinding sound when the car is in motion. You can remove the lodged stone or material by moving the automobile forward and backward repeatedly in a secure place. However, if that doesn't solve your problem, it is advisable to contact a professional brake repair Palmdale company.
Brake Fade
This condition occurs when your brakes overheat, and they usually do not function as a result. It is common when brakes are used much more than they usually would, like going down a long hill. What’s more, too much heat can cause the brake pad friction material to worsen and rotors to crack or become glazed.
If you experience brake fade, the pedal will need extra effort to give the same stopping power. You can avoid this issue by employing engine braking methods. One is using the lower gear function on the transmission so that the engine and the drive train control the vehicle's speed.
However, if you find yourself in a risky situation on the road, pull over and let the brakes cool. Do a pressure check on the braking system to ensure that the hydraulics is working correctly. You can also carry out a hydraulic check by propelling the pedal a couple of times when your vehicle is parked. The pedal must become firm with every push or propel without feeling soggy.
Whether or not you have know-how in car repair, zero to little learning is dangerous. So, nothing beats taking your automobile to a brake repair expert if you’re experiencing too much brake fade.
Vibrating
You can hear or experience a vibration if brake mechanism components like the anti-rattle shims, brake lining, or anti-rattle clips are missing or not adjusted properly. Sometimes, a pedal pulsation or a vibrating steering wheel can be caused by other components of the car, like worn-out wheel bearings.
A brake repair expert must inspect the brake system and make sure that you are not using the wrong material. Also, they will inform you if you have to replace missing or worn-out hardware like the wheel bearing, caliper bracket, and other parts.
Conclusion: Call a Professional Brake Repair Service Near Me
Are you worried about your car’s brake noise? That is a tell-tale sign that something is off. So, call our professional technicians at Carlax Quality Automotive today to book a brake repair service. We also proudly offer general auto care, serving residents in Palmdale and the nearby areas.
Brake noises can be frustrating and confusing. Do you have a strange noise every time you brake? If so, what could be causing it? In this blog post, we will discuss 7 possible causes of brake noises and what to do about them.
Outline:
- Rattle
- Dragging
- Squealing
- Thumping
- Grinding
- Brake Fade
- Vibrating
- Conclusion
Rattle
This brake noise is a common apprehension for drivers. It usually occurs when you let up off the pedal and is akin to the sound of shaking a can of spray paint. The main reason for the rattle noise is the pads, which is fine. Brake pads can rattle from time to time because of heat expansion, particularly if they were set up with no anti-rattle shims. Remember, though, that this sound must not be consistent and never occur while your foot is on the brake pedal. If you notice a rattling noise each time you hit the brakes, take your car to a professional brake repair technician for inspection. Your safety is at stake, so ignoring the issue is not an option.
Dragging
If the brake sound you hear sounds like something is pulling or towing under your car, generally from the back, even if sometimes it can happen up front too, you must take your vehicle to an auto repair shop. Usually, the dragging noise is because of the brake drum or brake caliper that has either seized or not released once you take your foot off the brake pedal. This results in the shoe or pad keeping in contact with the brake mechanism while driving. In due course, it gets worn and takes a toll on your car’s fuel mileage and performance.
Squealing
A squealing sound from the brakes is generally caused by one of two things. First, a set of tabs connected to the brake pads slowly becomes exposed when the pad materials have been damaged to the extent that they must be replaced. Second, the metal tab rubs against the brake rotor steel and makes that squealing sound as a reminder that it is time to head to the garage. However, some pads don't have a tab. So, the sound indicates down to the pad's metal backing plate, pushed next to the spinning rotor. This is an emergency that needs prompt and immediate attention.
Thumping
If you hear this sound while braking, typically originating from the front wheels, it can be a sign that the brake rotors have gone out of shape. In other words, that could mean they have become warped. The noise can also be caused by the buildup of pad material on the brake rotor. Unlike other issues, this can be machined off, so replacing the whole unit is not required.
Grinding
A grinding noise while braking is a serious concern and must be addressed immediately. There are two leading causes of grinding. When the brakes produce a loud grinding sound after pressing the pedal, the rotor disc is forced against the part of the caliper. Usually, this is due to extreme wear on the rotors or brake pads. Make sure to address this issue right away if you don’t want to find yourself in a life-threatening situation. Also, keep in mind that ignoring it can take a huge toll on your finances.
Another reason behind a grinding noise is a foreign object stuck somewhere in the caliper. In this scenario, the brakes usually produce a constant screeching or grinding sound when the car is in motion. You can remove the lodged stone or material by moving the automobile forward and backward repeatedly in a secure place. However, if that doesn't solve your problem, it is advisable to contact a professional brake repair Palmdale company.
Brake Fade
This condition occurs when your brakes overheat, and they usually do not function as a result. It is common when brakes are used much more than they usually would, like going down a long hill. What’s more, too much heat can cause the brake pad friction material to worsen and rotors to crack or become glazed.
If you experience brake fade, the pedal will need extra effort to give the same stopping power. You can avoid this issue by employing engine braking methods. One is using the lower gear function on the transmission so that the engine and the drive train control the vehicle's speed.
However, if you find yourself in a risky situation on the road, pull over and let the brakes cool. Do a pressure check on the braking system to ensure that the hydraulics is working correctly. You can also carry out a hydraulic check by propelling the pedal a couple of times when your vehicle is parked. The pedal must become firm with every push or propel without feeling soggy.
Whether or not you have know-how in car repair, zero to little learning is dangerous. So, nothing beats taking your automobile to a brake repair expert if you’re experiencing too much brake fade.
Vibrating
You can hear or experience a vibration if brake mechanism components like the anti-rattle shims, brake lining, or anti-rattle clips are missing or not adjusted properly. Sometimes, a pedal pulsation or a vibrating steering wheel can be caused by other components of the car, like worn-out wheel bearings.
A brake repair expert must inspect the brake system and make sure that you are not using the wrong material. Also, they will inform you if you have to replace missing or worn-out hardware like the wheel bearing, caliper bracket, and other parts.
Conclusion: Call a Professional Brake Repair Service Near Me
Are you worried about your car’s brake noise? That is a tell-tale sign that something is off. So, call our professional technicians at Carlax Quality Automotive today to book a brake repair service. We also proudly offer general auto care, serving residents in Palmdale and the nearby areas.
