A scraping noise when braking at low speed can be both annoying and concerning for drivers.
If you hear noise when braking at low speed, it can indicate worn-out brake pads. If the brake pads have been used for a long time and are worn out, it’s best to replace them immediately.
Ignoring the grinding and squeaky noises that your brake produces can result in trouble or danger. Understanding the root cause of the scraping noise is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and performance.
Not only can this noise signal wear and tear on your brake components, but it can also be a symptom of debris, rust, or improper installation.
By promptly identifying and resolving these issues, drivers can ensure their brakes are functioning properly, enhancing the overall safety and longevity of their vehicle.
How does the Braking System Work?
Your engine produces power that allows you to drive your car at high speeds. Going fast is half the job of your car. It also needs to stop. This is why the car is braked.
Although your car has several safety features, brakes are the primary safety feature that keeps passengers safe.
The principle on which the brakes work is friction. The force transfer to the brake pads may vary, but eventually, when the brake pads are involved, the vehicle is stopped using friction.
In most vehicles, the brakes are fitted using a hydraulic system and disc brakes are seen in most modern vehicles. Usually, all four wheels of a car have brakes. In some vehicles, you will see four-wheel disc brakes.
On the other hand, the rear wheels will have drum brakes while the front wheels will have disc brakes. The front wheels work best to stop the car. Thus, they are often fitted with disc brakes.
Most modern cars have a hydraulic braking system. So, to understand how the braking system works, let’s take a look at the hydraulic braking system.
The force you apply to the paddle with your foot needs to be transferred to the brake pad. It not only needs to be moved, but it needs to be expanded.
First, the amplification of energy is done by mechanical leverage. The ball is multiplied many times when you press the pedal using your foot.
Then, the hydraulic system comes into play. A piston enters the cylinder when you push the pedal and expel the hydraulic fluid from the cylinder. Through a system of brake hoses and lines, hydraulic fluid spreads throughout the braking system.
The distribution of hydraulic fluid sends an equal force to all brake pads. When the brake pads are pushed by this force, they come in contact with the wheels. Then friction is created between the brake rotor and the brake pad which stops the car.
This is the whole process of stopping a car through the brakes. Any one of these elements can be defective. When this happens, it often produces a noise when braking at low speed.
Understanding Brake Components
Before diving into brake squeaking, let’s first review the primary components that make up your braking system. Each one plays a vital role in ensuring your vehicle comes to a stop when needed.
#1. Brake Pads.
Brake pads are the small, rectangular-shaped components located inside the brake calipers that press against the rotor when you apply the brakes. Its primary function is to create the friction necessary to stop the vehicle.
#2. Rotors.
The rotors are the large, circular-shaped discs that the brake pads press against, which subsequently slows down your vehicle. These metal discs are attached to the wheels and spin along with them until the brakes are applied.
#3. Calipers.
Calipers are what hold the brake pads in place and exert pressure on them to stop the vehicle’s wheels from turning. These are typically made of metal and can be located either at the front or rear of your vehicle.
While these are the primary components that make up your braking system, there are other parts as well.
These include the brake lines and brake fluid. Together, all of these parts work in harmony to ensure your vehicle comes to a safe stop.
Why Are My Brakes Making A Noise?
“There are a few reasons why a car will make noise while braking at low speeds. Maybe obvious but worn brakes will make noise a low speeds.
Many vehicles are fitted with brake pad wear indicators that we call “squeaker tabs.” When the brake pads wear enough, this little metal tab contacts the brake rotor and creates a squeaking noise.
Some noise from the brakes is often normal, especially during the first drive of the day, after it rains, or if the car sits for an extended period of time.
There are a number of other noises that a car can make only when braking at low speeds. Maybe there is a “wooshing” noise coming from the brake rotors or backing plate.
A rusty backing plate (the shield that protects the brake rotor from the elements) can become deformed and rub against the brake rotor, creating a noise. Maybe there’s a “squeaking” or “clunk” noise from a worn suspension component.
Modern cars use a complicated multi-link inspection. This means there are more parts to absorb all of the conditions Minnesota roads throw at your car. However, this also means there are more parts that can wear out as they take a beating.
If there is a problem with the anti-lock brake system (ABS), there will be a noise that sounds like a grinding when braking.
Types of braking noises that appear at low speed
Most of the braking noises appear just before you completely stop, or at lower speeds. Once you press the brake pedal with higher force, brake pads located in the brake caliper are pressed from both sides and they stop the rotating disc.
So, if you have worn-out brake pads or other components of the braking system, chances are that you’ll hear some braking sounds. These are the most common types of braking sounds you might hear as you step on the brake pedal:
- Grinding sounds
- Creaking sounds
- Squealing sounds
It’s crucial to pay attention to the type of sound you hear since it helps determine the cause. Taking a look into the reasons behind the noise is also useful to prevent further damage to other brake components.
So, to avoid doing expensive repairs that might even require changing the caliper itself, you should take a closer look at the signs left by the noise.
#1. Grinding noises when braking.
Grinding is frequent noise you might be hearing just before you stop at a traffic light or a stop sign. It can sometimes be a high-frequency sound that’s rather irritating and harmful both for your driving experience and the parts.
A common reason behind the grinding noise when braking is metal-to-metal friction caused by a worn-out brake pad. If the brake pad materials get all eaten up and you don’t replace it on time, you’ll risk the metal frame of the pad touching the rotor.
Because of this, you can damage the rotor further, so you might need to replace both the brake pads and the discs. Along with the unique grinding sound, you’ll hear just before stopping, some vibrations and rumbles can be felt through the brake pedal.
Too much friction can end up damaging the caliper as well, so if you hear grinding noise when braking at low speed, you should immediately visit a mechanic.
Getting your brakes checked is the only way you can avoid having to pay for expensive braking system components in this case.
#2. Creaking noises just before stopping.
If you hear a creaking noise when braking, your caliper guide pins likely need some lubrication. As the guide pins and pistons help squeeze the brake pads against the rotors, causing your vehicle to stop.
However, these caliper components can’t last forever, and they need proper lubrication as the friction makes them wear off faster.
So, if you don’t lubricate the guide pins with grease additives, it could result in those annoying creaking sounds just before you stop. On top of that, it causes your brake pads to wear off much faster, and there’s a reason why they are called guide pins.
Without properly lubricated pins, the caliper can’t push the brake pads against the disc properly. Precisely, the brake pad won’t push against the surface of the disc entirely, so you might sense some difficulties.
The braking force of your vehicle won’t be as good as what you are used to, so it’s also a matter of safety that you lubricate the guide pins.
Creaking noises can also be a result of worn-off hard elements between the pads and the disc, as the rust could render them useless if you don’t service the brakes on time.
#3. Squealing noises when braking at low speed.
Hearing squealing noises when braking at low speed is also a drag, and it occurs right before you stop. It can either be a consequence of the extremely hard brake you had to do previously or due to a rusty brake disc layer.
Braking powerfully can result in excessive wear of the brake pads, which can cause a squealing sound.
On the other hand, your disc is rusty and needs a replacement for the sound to go away. In the case of a rusty disc, you’ll notice the same squealing sound when slowly starting as well.
It’s because the calipers are letting go of the brake pad and it stops pressuring the disc. So, it’s a clear sign of rusty brake discs, so you’ll need to replace the discs for the sound to go away. One exception is if you’ve parked your car in dirt or mud for some time.
In this case, the accumulated debris on the disc can cause the squealing, but it should wear off as you drive and brake over and over again. If it doesn’t you sadly have a rusty disc.
Causes Of Noise When Braking At Low Speed
The most common reason for noise when braking at low speed is worn-out brake pads or pads that are a cheap, low-quality brand.
The brake rotors might be worn or the shims could be broken. Noise also occurs when a stone is stuck or if the car has been parked.
#1. Worn Brake Pads.
Brake pads are made with a variety of materials, from ceramic to metallic matter, but all of them will eventually wear down.
As the brake pads are engaged, the material starts to wear until they are completely gone. Noise occurs before the brakes are worn completely, so you want to pay attention.
If you allow the pads to wear any more after hearing this noise, further damage could occur. The brake rotors could warp, or damage may happen to the calipers.
#2. Cheap/Low-Quality Brake Pads.
If you’ve just put the brake pads on and you are hearing noises, you know it’s not because the pads are worn. However, the problem could be due to the brake pads you chose to buy.
Cheap, low-quality pads can make a squeaking noise right out of the box. This sound is annoying and most people will avoid buying cheap brakes for this reason.
If you can deal with the sound and you need to save some money, these may still be the option for you. Just be sure to pay attention to any new sounds you hear that may indicate wear.
#3. Worn Brake Rotors.
Brake rotors are circular discs connected to each wheel. When the brake pedal is pressed, the pads push into the rotor to stop the rotation of the wheel.
When the rotors begin to warp, you may hear an unusual sound while braking. This sound is different from the typical squealing sound of bad brakes. Instead, it’s more of a grinding or rumbling noise.
As the rotors get worse, stopping distances can increase, thereby putting the whole car in danger. You may also notice some vibration as you step on the pedal.
#4. Stone Stuck Between Rotor And Pad.
When no mechanical failure is the culprit, the noise could be coming from a stone or other piece of debris stuck in the system. Most often, tiny stones get stuck between the brake pad and the rotor.
With this rock in place, the brakes may not work correctly. Damage can be severe if you don’t get the stone out right away, so don’t put off the repair.
#5. Broken Shims.
The brake pad shim is used to prevent noise, but it can also contribute to it when there’s a problem. Brake shims keep the pads and rotors insulated from vibration.
When the brake shim is damaged or taken off, vibration can occur. You will start to hear strange noises, even while braking at low speeds.
#6. Parked Car For Too Long.
If you put your car in storage or you haven’t used it, the metal particles on the brake pads rust to the rotors. As you first drive away, this rust is going to create a strange noise.
If it’s only been a few days, you may hear a snapping noise at first, but everything should return to normal after the release. Otherwise, prolonged parking can lead to the need to change the pads and rotors before the noise stops.
Additionally, any moisture can create brake noise. If it’s recently rained or you’ve been through a car wash, the brakes might sound strange until they dry off.
Diagnosing the Problem
Identifying the exact cause of a scraping noise when braking at low speed requires a systematic approach.
Here are the steps to accurately diagnose the problem:
Visual Inspection
- Procedure: Begin by visually inspecting the brake components. Look at the brake pads, rotors, and calipers for any obvious signs of wear, damage, or debris.
- Indicators: Check for thin brake pads, grooves or scoring on the rotors, and any foreign objects lodged in the brake assembly.
- Tools Needed: A flashlight and possibly a mirror for hard-to-see areas.
Listening for Specific Sounds
- Procedure: Pay attention to the noise while driving. Different noises can indicate different issues. For example, a high-pitched squeal might suggest worn brake pads, while a grinding noise could indicate debris or metal-on-metal contact.
- Indicators: Note whether the noise is constant or intermittent, if it changes with speed, and if it occurs only when braking or also when driving normally.
- Tools Needed: None, just careful listening.
Checking Brake Pad Thickness
- Procedure: Measure the thickness of the brake pads. Most pads have a wear indicator, either a metal tab or a groove, that becomes visible or makes noise when the pad is worn.
- Indicators: If the pads are below the manufacturer’s recommended thickness, they need to be replaced.
- Tools Needed: A micrometer or caliper for precise measurement.
Inspecting the Rotor Surface
- Procedure: Look at the surface of the brake rotors for any signs of damage, rust, or uneven wear. Rotors should have a smooth, even surface.
- Indicators: Grooves, scoring, rust patches, or a shiny, mirror-like finish can indicate problems. A blue tint may suggest overheating.
- Tools Needed: Visual inspection is usually sufficient, but a rotor micrometer can provide precise measurements if needed.
Checking for Debris
- Procedure: Inspect the area around the brake pads and rotors for any debris that might be causing the scraping noise.
- Indicators: Stones, dirt, or other foreign objects can become lodged in the brake components.
- Tools Needed: Compressed air or a brush to remove debris.
Testing Brake Component Alignment
- Procedure: Ensure that all brake components are correctly aligned and securely fastened. Misalignment can cause noise and uneven wear.
- Indicators: Look for any signs of uneven wear on the brake pads or rotors, which can suggest misalignment.
- Tools Needed: Basic hand tools to adjust or tighten components.
Performing a Test Drive
- Procedure: After inspecting and addressing any obvious issues, take the vehicle for a test drive. Pay close attention to when and how the noise occurs.
- Indicators: Note if the noise is still present, has changed, or has been eliminated.
- Tools Needed: None, just careful observation.
By following these diagnostic steps, drivers can accurately pinpoint the cause of the scraping noise and take the appropriate action to fix it.
This thorough approach helps ensure that no potential issues are overlooked, and the braking system remains in optimal condition.
How to fix the brake noise problems
So, we’ve learned more about the noise we may hear from our braking system and also how to differentiate between them.
Besides, we got exposed to the reason why these sounds might happen. In this section, we’ll learn how to perform some checks to know where the defective part is.
#1. Find Loose parts.
The first step is to disassemble the front wheels of the car. Then you will perform a simple check by trying to wiggle the braking calipers, pads and rotor, and other brake components.
All these parts should not be moved or wiggled just by hand. If you can vibrate it with your hands, then there are a few missing, damaged, or loose clips and bolts. You need to fix those immediately. This may lead to vibrating and noisy braking.
#2. Apply Dampening Paste.
Excessive vibration from braking parts always led to lousy noises when braking.
So, after taking care of missing bolts and damaged shims or clips, you may have to apply dampening paste which is a water-based compound that is highly effective in reducing vibrations and noises coming from braking parts.
Apply a thin layer of this substance on the back of the braking pad on the metal part of it between the braking pad and the caliper piston.
Give the paste plenty of time to dry (2 or 3 hours or until it is completely dry) before reassembling the brake unit. It will become sticky and darker when it is dry.
#3. Inspect Brake pads or Brake Shoes.
Check the brake pads for wearing out or replacement. This is the main problem that many drivers face when they’re using their cars.
Many braking pads have a wearing indicator that’s designed to make noise when it’s worn out. Aftermarket brake pads vary in size.
This will cause a brake pad to wear unevenly. This causes the brake pad to ride the edge of the rotor causing rational braking noise so you may hear grinding noise when braking but pads are fine.
In this case, you can sand the lip down and make it even this will increase brake pad life and eliminate the noise. If you find out that you need to replace the brake pad, try to find a good one.
New brake pads can make a grinding noise too until the brake pads are in the shape of the rotor’s surface.
#4. Check brake rotor.
The last check you can perform is checking the braking rotors. While you are using your vehicle and changing braking pads, the brake rotors may be affected by all of this. An irregular brake rotor causes the brake pad to jump and wiggle.
You have to have a very smooth rotor surface. So, if the rotor wear is not too deep then you may have to get your rotors machined in order to make the surface of the rotor smooth.
Always check the rotor’s thickness before machining because this may affect the safety of braking. But if the wear is excessive, or the entire rotor is distorted or doesn’t have a secure thickness, you have to replace the rotors as soon as possible.
#5. Extra check.
It is always recommended to check the brake oil and the brake lines after any maintenance in the braking system. You have to check the level of it. If it is below the marked level then you need to fill it up with the proper oil recommended by the manufacturer Dot 3, Dot 4, and Dot 5.
Also, check the brake fluid color. It must be clear and bright. If it’s brown, then you have to change it. You may check for leakage in the brake line and if you find any, change it as soon as possible.
Preventive Measures for Avoiding Brake Squeak when Slowing Down
If you’re tired of those annoying brake squeaks whenever you slow down, here are some preventive measures you can take:
(1). Regular brake maintenance.
Properly maintaining your brakes on a regular basis is crucial in avoiding brake squeaking. Make sure they are inspected, cleaned, and lubricated as recommended by the manufacturer or your trusted mechanic.
(2). Proper wheel and rotor cleaning.
Brake dust buildup is a prime reason for brake squeaking. Regular cleaning of your wheels and rotors can help prevent dust buildup.
Make sure to use a cleaner specifically designed for brake systems, as some cleaners can cause damage to brake components.
(3). Choosing high-quality brake pads.
Use high-quality brake pads to avoid premature wearing or damage to your braking components, which can lead to brake squeaking. Look for reputable brands with a proven track record of quality.
(4). Use gentle braking.
Avoid sudden and hard braking, particularly when your brakes are cold, as this can contribute to brake squeaking. Gently apply your brakes when coming to a stop for smoother and quieter braking.
(5). Driving cautiously.
Practicing cautious driving habits such as reducing your speed when approaching a stop and avoiding sudden stops can help prevent unnecessary pressure on your braking system, which may result in brake squeaking.
By following these preventive measures, you can avoid brake squeaking when coming to a slow stop and ensure a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
When to Seek Professional Help
In some cases, professional assistance may be necessary:
- Persistent Noise Despite DIY Fixes: If the noise continues after attempting the fixes mentioned, a professional inspection may be needed.
- Visible Damage to Brake Components: Any visible damage to the rotors, calipers, or other brake parts should be assessed by a professional.
- Lack of Experience with Brake Repairs: For those unfamiliar with brake systems, seeking professional help is the safest option.
FAQs.
Why does my car make a creaking noise when I brake?
Ans: This may be because the shims, clips, and bolts are not well fitted, and the brake unit wiggling during car moving.
So, in order to solve this creaking sound, you may have to check that all of the above parts are well-fitted and strongly connected to each other. Otherwise, you have to replace the defective one.
What do bad brake pads sound like?
Ans: Brake pads always make a squealing or screeching noise that sounds like the friction of the chalk on the board.
This sound means the wear indicator is dragging into the rotor or that the braking pads are made from a low-quality mixture and there is a metal flake in the brake pad bond dragging into the rotor.
Why does my car make noises when I brake?
Ans: There are many possibilities for brakes making noise when stopping. Some of it is related to the worn-out braking pad and also the usage of low-quality marked brake pads.
There is another reason that lies behind the clips or shims not well installed or defective. So, vibration happens and it leads to high braking noise.
Another reason is that the braking rotors have an uneven surface. This may lead to noise when braking.
All you have to do is inspect the reason behind the sound and early detection of it may prevent you from a big danger.
How do you know if you need new brake discs?
Ans: Run-on a brake disc inspection. Check the discs by looking at the surface of the brake disc and notice how smooth is it or if it has deep grooves or not.
Besides, try listening and feeling the braking effect if there are any squealing sounds while braking or does the car has vibrations when braking or not.
If all checks became positive this means you need new brake discs.
Final Words:
Finally, braking noise can be an early alert for a serious problem. In this guide, we got to know the causes and types of braking noise problems that may help you to protect yourself from the causes and fast-acting.
If you felt that there is any fault regarding the braking system then self-diagnose the defect and try to fix the defect yourself.
But if you felt confused about the failure in your car just go ahead to the nearest authorized workshop and get the fix done.