Did you hear that?
You may pick up on a wide range of sounds when you get behind the wheel. Some of them might stem from a car’s braking system.
In certain cases, brake noises can be normal. They could also mean that different kinds of brake repair or maintenance is needed.
What brake noises can appear?
Brake noises you may notice include:
- Rattling
- Squealing
- Grinding
- Squeaking
- Groaning
- Popping
Brake hardware or a backing plate, which is a thin metal, are going to make a high pitched noise. If you’re hearing what appears to be a rattling, it could mean that the vehicle has broken brake hardware or loose brake parts. It may also be time to lubricate components.
Grinding sounds can be the result of brake wear. A low pitched grind is typically associated with metal on metal, such as the brake rotors rubbing against the plates on the brake pads.
The wheel bearings might be causing uneven or early wear on the brake pads and rotors, too.
Rust and pitting on rotors cause noise or vibrations. Also, you have rust and corrosion on tone rings, which can make the anti-lock braking system (ABS) engage.
You may hear what appears to be a grinding noise if there is rust on the rotors from the vehicle sitting.
Rust building up can lead to a squeaking noise, as well. The weather could also be at fault. You might experience this symptom if it’s cold and damp outside. Certain brake pads – like performance brake pads – also create this sound if they’re cold.
There are several other possible causes behind brake noise. One of them is brake dust, which brakes produce as they experience wear.
Sounds can be linked with brake pads, as well. This symptom may appear when a vehicle has poor brake pads or uses cheap brake pad material. If new brake pads were installed on old brake rotors, it might generate brake noise.
Car sounds can clue you in on problems your vehicle is currently facing and repairs it may soon need.
How do we find the cause of brake noises?
Noise diagnostics may be needed to pinpoint the culprit behind brake noises.
This can include a visual inspection, test drive, and trying to imitate the sound.
It’s important to keep in mind that what’s heard may come across differently among drivers. So, if you aren’t sure what type of sound it is when talking to an auto repair shop, you might want to ask them to listen during the drop off.
What are other common brake problems?
Aside from brake noises and brake wear, our technicians look for a variety of brake problems.
These include issues with the brake pedal – does it feel soft or hard when you press on it?
We want to make sure the brake hoses don’t have any cracks and aren’t twisted.
Another problem we watch for is brake fluid leaks, which could occur at the brake calipers, brake lines, brake hoses and other places.
During the Virginia State Inspection, our inspectors also check the parking brake and confirm that the red brake light isn’t on.
HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dale City, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.