Brakes Making a Noise? Squeaking & Grinding | e-CAR
e-CAR Nationwide Service Centres
Are your brakes squeaking, grinding or making unusual noises? Learn what different brake noises mean and when your brakes need inspection or repair.
Find an e-Car Workshop near you. Enter your area below
Brakes Making a Noise? Squeaking, Grinding & Other Brake Problems
Are your brakes squeaking, grinding or making unusual noises? Learn what different brake noises mean and when your brakes need inspection or repair.
Brakes Making a Noise? Squeaking, Grinding & Other Brake Problems
Brakes are designed to operate quietly and consistently. If your brakes suddenly start squeaking, grinding, scraping or making another unusual noise, it is worth having them checked.
Brake noise can be caused by something relatively minor, such as brake dust or vibration, but it can also indicate worn brake pads, damaged brake discs or another problem within the braking system.
The important thing is to identify what is causing the noise before it becomes a safety problem.
Common Brake Noises & What They Could Mean
Different brake noises can point towards different problems. Here are some of the most common ones.
Brakes Squeaking
A high-pitched squeal when braking can be caused by worn brake pads, brake dust, vibration or the materials used in the brake pad.
Occasional squeaking does not necessarily mean your brakes are failing, but persistent or worsening noise should be inspected.
Brakes Grinding
Grinding is more concerning.
If you hear a harsh grinding or metal-on-metal noise when applying the brakes, the brake pads may be severely worn and the backing plate could be contacting the brake disc.
Grinding brakes should be inspected as soon as possible.
Brakes Scraping
A scraping sound can occur when something is contacting the brake disc. It could be related to worn brake components, debris, a damaged component or a brake shield.
If the scraping happens continuously rather than only when braking, the vehicle should be checked.
Brakes Clicking
A clicking noise can sometimes come from movement in the brake pads or other components within the braking assembly.
A proper inspection can determine whether the noise is coming from the brakes or another part of the vehicle.
Brakes Pulsating or Vibrating
If the steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates when braking, there may be an issue with the brake discs or another component of the braking system.
In some cases, brake disc skimming may be an option, depending on the condition and thickness of the discs.
Brakes Making a Hissing Noise
A hissing sound when pressing the brake pedal can potentially indicate a problem with the brake booster or vacuum system.
Because these components assist with braking, the problem should be investigated rather than ignored.
Why Are My Brakes Making a Noise?
There are several reasons your brakes may start making unusual noises.
Common causes include:
- Worn brake pads
- Brake dust or debris
- Worn or damaged brake discs
- Brake pad vibration
- Glazed brake pads or discs
- Brake components becoming loose
- Damaged brake hardware
- Brake caliper problems
- Foreign objects contacting the brake disc
- Problems with the brake system or brake booster
The noise itself doesn’t always tell you exactly what has failed. A physical inspection is usually needed to identify the cause.
How Do I Know If My Brake Pads Are Worn?
Many brake pads have wear indicators designed to warn the driver when the pad material is getting low.
Possible signs of worn brake pads include:
- Squealing when braking
- Grinding noises
- Longer stopping distances
- Brake warning light
- Reduced braking performance
- Vehicle pulling when braking
- Visible reduction in brake pad material
If you suspect your brake pads are worn, have them inspected rather than waiting for the noise to become severe.
What Happens When Brake Discs Wear?
Brake discs are subjected to considerable heat and friction every time you brake.
Over time they can become worn, scored, warped or develop other surface problems.
Worn or uneven brake discs can contribute to:
- Brake vibration
- Steering wheel vibration
- Pulsating brake pedal
- Uneven braking
- Brake noise
Depending on the condition and remaining thickness of the disc, disc skimming may sometimes be possible. In other cases, replacement may be the appropriate solution.
When Should Noisy Brakes Be Checked?
You should arrange a brake inspection if the noise is:
- Getting louder
- Happening every time you brake
- Accompanied by vibration
- Accompanied by grinding
- Accompanied by reduced braking performance
- Coming with a brake warning light
- Accompanied by the vehicle pulling to one side
A brake noise may start as a minor annoyance but can become a more serious problem if the underlying cause is worn or damaged components.
Other Brake Problems To Look Out For
Noise isn’t the only warning sign of a brake problem.
Brake Pedal Feels Soft
A soft or spongy brake pedal can indicate a problem within the hydraulic braking system and should be investigated.
Brake Pedal Feels Hard
A very hard brake pedal can potentially indicate an issue with the brake booster or vacuum assistance.
Car Pulls When Braking
If the vehicle pulls to one side when you brake, there may be an issue with a brake caliper, pad, disc or another braking component.
ABS Warning Light
An ABS warning light indicates that the anti-lock braking system has detected a fault.
The vehicle may still have conventional braking, but the ABS system may not operate correctly in an emergency braking situation.
Brake Warning Light
A brake warning light should never simply be ignored. Depending on the vehicle, it can indicate low brake fluid, a brake system fault or another problem requiring attention.
How e-CAR Can Help With Brake Problems
If your brakes are squeaking, grinding, vibrating or simply don’t feel the way they normally do, an inspection can help identify the cause.
The braking system can be checked for worn pads, disc condition, caliper problems, hydraulic issues, ABS faults and other potential causes.
Once the problem has been identified, the appropriate repair can be recommended.
Brakes Making a Noise?
Don’t Ignore It.
Don’t wait until you hear a noise. it could already be too late
ABS System Repair
Anti-lock Braking (ABS) helps maintain steering control and stability by allowing the wheels to continue rotating and avoiding skidding, which is essential for effective braking and maneuvering.
Brake Pads Replacement
Worn brake pads reduce braking efficiency, increasing stopping distances and compromising vehicle safety. Replacing them ensures that you have reliable braking performance.
Brake Disc/Drum Resurfacing/Skimming or Replacement
Over time, brake discs and drums can become worn, scored, or warped due to friction and heat. Resurfacing (skimming) helps restore their smooth surface, ensuring effective contact with the brake pads or shoes for consistent braking performance.
Brake Fluid Change
Old or contaminated brake fluid can lead to a spongy brake pedal, reduced braking performance, and increased stopping distances. Replacing brake fluid ensures optimal braking efficiency and responsiveness.
Master Cylinder Replacement
A damaged master cylinder can cause brake fluid leaks, leading to a drop in hydraulic pressure and potentially resulting in brake failure. Replacing a leaking master cylinder helps prevent this risk and maintains the integrity of the braking system.
Brake Problems FAQs
Why are my brakes squeaking?
Brake squeaking can be caused by brake pad material, dust, vibration, glazing or worn brake components. Persistent squeaking should be checked to determine the cause.
Why are my brakes grinding?
Grinding can indicate that the brake pads are severely worn and that metal components are contacting the brake disc. Grinding brakes should be inspected promptly.
Can brake discs be skimmed instead of replaced?
Sometimes. If the discs are suitable and remain above the manufacturer’s minimum thickness after machining, disc skimming may be an option. Severely worn or damaged discs may need replacement.
How long do brake pads last?
Brake pad life varies considerably depending on driving style, traffic conditions, vehicle type and the brake components fitted. Frequent stop-start driving can increase brake wear.
Why does my car shake when I brake?
Brake vibration can be associated with brake discs or other components of the braking system. An inspection is needed to identify the actual cause.
What does an ABS warning light mean?
An ABS warning light means the vehicle has detected a fault with its anti-lock braking system. The vehicle should be inspected to identify the fault.
Genuine car parts from our top brands
Terms and Conditions apply.
Please note that not all service centres offer the full range of services, and available services may vary between locations. We recommend confirming with your chosen service centre prior to booking your vehicle.
Approvals & accreditations
Trust
e-CAR is accredited with RMI, MIWAÂ approvals, and Right 2 Repair Supporter in SA for top-quality vehicle servicing and workmanship that meets industry standards.
