Does your car make odd noises when braking? Strange brake noises can be unnerving whether it’s a squeal, a grind, or a thump. They’re not just an annoyance either—those sounds signal something’s wrong with your vehicle’s braking system. But what causes these noises, and what should you do about them?

Common Causes of Brake Squealing

One of the most frequent symptoms is a high-pitched squeal when applying the brakes. This noise is often caused by worn brake pads. Brake pads are made from friction materials that wear down over time as they rub against the brake rotor. Once they’re worn thin, a metal tab designed as a wear indicator will make contact with the rotor, creating that unmistakable squeal. If your brakes are squealing, it’s likely time to replace the brake pads before they wear out completely and cause more severe damage to your braking system.

Another potential cause of squealing could be dirty or contaminated brakes. Dust, grime, and even water can get onto the rotors and pads, resulting in noise when you brake. Sometimes, a quick cleaning can fix the issue, but if the squealing persists, it’s best to have it checked out by a professional.

Grinding Noises

A grinding noise when braking is usually a more serious problem than a squeal. This sound often means that your brake pads are completely worn down, and the metal backing plate is coming into direct contact with the rotor. Not only can this cause significant damage to the rotor, but it also greatly reduces your braking ability, putting your safety at risk.

Ignoring a grinding noise can lead to costly repairs, including the need to replace both the rotors and the brake pads. If you hear grinding when you press the brakes, you should address it immediately by getting your car checked by a qualified professional.

Thumping or Vibrating When Braking

Have you ever felt your car shake or heard a thumping noise when braking? This is usually a sign that your brake rotors are warped or uneven. When brake rotors warp, they no longer provide a smooth surface for the brake pads to grip, causing vibrations or a thumping sound as they make uneven contact.

Warped rotors can occur due to excessive heat buildup from frequent heavy braking or from driving in stop-and-go traffic. If you notice thumping or vibrations, it’s crucial to have your rotors inspected and resurfaced or replaced, depending on the extent of the damage.

Rattling Sounds When Braking

If you hear a rattling noise when you brake, it could be a sign of loose or damaged brake components. Over time, the various parts of your braking system, including the calipers, bolts, and clips, can become loose or worn out. When this happens, you might hear a rattling noise as you brake due to the movement of these loose parts.

Rattling could also indicate issues with your brake pads not being seated properly in the calipers. If the brake pads are shifting around when you press the brake pedal, it’s time to have the brakes adjusted or repaired to prevent further damage.

Whistling or Hissing Sounds

While less common, whistling or hissing sounds when braking could point to an issue with your brake fluid or master cylinder. If air gets trapped in the brake lines or if the brake fluid is low, it can create a whistling or hissing sound when you apply the brakes. In this case, your braking system may not be able to generate enough pressure to stop the vehicle effectively, which can be a serious safety hazard.

If you hear these types of sounds, it’s critical to have your brake fluid checked and potentially bled to remove any air from the lines.

Is your car making worrisome brake noises? Schedule a service with Absolute Auto Repair for expert brake diagnostics and repair. Keep your braking system in top shape!