When it comes to unusual sounds vehicle sounds, few are as alarming as brake noises. As one of the most important safety features of your vehicle, your brakes are one of the last things you want to be worried about while you're driving down the road! But the good news is that not all brake noises are signs of trouble. In fact, some of them are completely normal.
To help you distinguish between the harmless and the hazardous, we've compiled some of the most common brake noises you might hear and what they mean. By the end of this post, you'll be able to tell the difference between a harmless squeak and a warning sign that your brakes need attention.
Grinding Noises When Starting Your Vehicle in the Morning
Grinding noises are often a bad thing—but before you panic and start budgeting for a brake replacement, there's a chance that this sound is completely normal, especially if you park your car outside. When your car is parked overnight, moisture and rust can accumulate on the rotors, causing a squealing or grinding sound as you drive. However, the friction and heat from the brakes should burn off the moisture, and the sound should disappear after you’ve driven for a while.
If you’d like to prevent this from happening altogether, try parking your car in a garage whenever possible, especially when it's raining or humid outside. But if you're still hearing that grinding noise throughout the day, it’s probably not caused by rotor rust. Have your brakes checked out to make sure all the components are in good working order.
Grinding Noises Throughout the Day
If you're hearing grinding noises from your brakes throughout the day, there's a good chance you need to have your brake pads replaced. An ongoing grinding noise usually happens when the friction material of the brake pad is completely worn away, leaving metal-on-metal contact. Not only is this a serious safety issue, but it can also cause major damage to the brake rotor or drum. So if you're hearing continuous grinding noises from your brakes, don't hesitate—get them checked out as soon as possible.
High-Pitched Squealing
If your brakes often squeal during normal driving, it's likely time to change your brake pads. Brake pads come equipped with a handy wear indicator that emits a squealing noise when the pad is worn down enough for the wear bar to hit the rotor. Don’t be tempted to ignore it—that noise is a clear indicator it's time for a service!
Vibrations and Rattling
Have your brakes been vibrating or making rattling noises? You may have a worn or warped rotor. When the rotor is warped, the uneven surface prevents the brake from making full contact with it, resulting in that unpleasant vibrating sensation. It's like a bumpy road, except it's happening right under your feet. If this is the case, you'll need to have your rotor resurfaced or replaced to prevent further damage and safety issues.
Squealing or Squeaking with Visible Dust Buildup
If you've noticed a buildup of brake dust on your wheels, don't worry—it's a common issue, especially if you've put off maintenance or frequently drive on dirt roads. However, it can cause squeaking or squealing that can mimic (or mask) other brake problems. Schedule an appointment, and we'll clean your brake components. Not only will your brakes be in top shape, but your wheels will also look like new again!
Brake Fade
If you’ve ever experienced brake fade, you know how scary it can be. You may be cruising down the road when all of a sudden, your brakes make intermittent noises and feel like they’re about to fail.
Brake fade can happen for several reasons—maybe you've had new parts or rotors installed, or maybe the wrong components were installed in the first place. Or, it could be as simple as the brake fluid overheating. The important thing is to get your brakes checked immediately. Ignoring the problem can put you and your passengers in danger, and it can also cause major damage to your car.
Sudden Grinding Noises
A sudden grinding noise coming from your brakes is enough to make your heart skip a beat—but before you panic, keep in mind that the culprit could be nothing more than road debris. Small pebbles or twigs can easily get trapped inside your brakes.
While the debris may work itself out as you drive, it's always best to err on the side of caution and have us evaluate the issue. After all, you never know what else might be going on under the hood. Maybe the debris has caused damage that needs to be addressed, or maybe there's another underlying issue that needs attention.
Don’t Wait to Have Your Brake System Inspected!
The bottom line: don't let unusual brake noises go unaddressed! As a crucial component of your vehicle's safety system, promptly addressing brake issues can save you money and, more importantly, keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
If you've been searching for a reliable auto repair shop in Rohnert Park, look no further than RPM Automotive Services. Our 36 years of experience and commitment to customer satisfaction have earned us a reputation as the leading auto repair facility in the area. Plus, with our ASE Certified staff and cutting-edge tools and technology, you can always trust that your vehicle is in good hands. Contact us today at (707) 800-4586 or schedule an appointment online!
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