When braking at low speeds, the car starts to make a grinding sound. If you hear this kind of noise, know that something is wrong with your car’s braking system.
Depending on the problem, it could lead to more serious issues. Thus, it is essential to make necessary changes or do some repairs.
This article aims to explain common causes of grinding sound when braking at low speeds and what you can do about it.
Article Summary
Causes of Grinding Sound When Braking at Low Speeds
When braking at low speeds, such as when parking, if you hear a grinding sound, the brake pads are usually worn to the point that you can see the metal underneath.
The sound can also mean that something (stones or dirt) is caught between the rotor and the caliper. Rust on the brake rotor is a common culprit, particularly when you don’t use the car for a while.
Other causes include runout, uneven rotors, and grooved rotors from wear. Low quality brake pads and faulty brake calipers are other common culprits.
Some common causes and solutions of grinding sound when braking at low speeds are.
Worn Brake Pads
Worn brake pads are the most common cause of these noises. The friction material in the brake pads wears away over time, and you can begin to hear all kinds of horrible noises.
Solution
Replace the brake pads as soon as possible to avoid damaging the rotors.
Debris Between Rotor and Caliper
There may be a stone or dirt caught inside and between the rotor and the brake caliper, which is grinding as it spins.
Solution
Take your brakes to the mechanic for a thorough cleaning (make sure to have all the dirt and grime taken off).
Rust On Brake Rotors
If the car remains stationary for too long, rust may appear on the brake rotors. The brake makes a noise when pressed, which starts from grinding.
Solution
You can remove small rust by driving your car, but bad rust might need rotor resurfacing or replacement.
Worn Rotors
During wear and tear, rotors can warp or develop grooves, which creates grinding sounds.
Solution
Rotors may need to be resurfaced or replaced depending on their condition.
Faulty Brake Calipers
If the car’s brake calipers aren’t working correctly, uneven brake application to the tires will result, which will cause grinding sounds from damaged brake pads.
Solution
Inspect and repair or replace the brake calipers as needed.
Low Quality Brake Pads
Using low quality or incorrect brake pads can cause excessive wear and noise.
Solution
Always use high quality, vehicle specific brake pads for replacements.
Is It OK To Drive with Grinding Brakes?
Driving with a grinding brake is terrible. Grinding noise always indicates serious conditions, such as damaged brake pads or rotors. It will make your car’s brake system malfunction, inefficient, and insecure.
Driving under this condition will lead to more damage with high costs of repair. Grinding sound means that the metal of the braking system is in contact with each other, not just the poor performance of the braking system, it is also very dangerous.
Make sure that your braking system is OK under the help of a professional mechanic when you hear this kind of testing causing from your braking system.
Prevention For Grinding Sound When Braking at Low Speeds
- Regular Inspections: Schedule regular brake inspections to catch potential issues early.
- Quality Parts: Invest in high quality brake components to ensure longevity and performance.
- Timely Maintenance: Address any brake issues immediately to prevent further damage.
When To See a Mechanic
It is important to get your brakes checked by a mechanic right away if they make any grinding noises at low speed.
Grinding (and sometimes growling) noises are always a bad sign, as they likely mean there is a problem that greatly affects the vehicle’s effective braking abilities. Waiting to fix it will only make the problem worse and cost more money to repair.
FAQs on Grinding Sounds When Braking at Low Speeds
What Should I Do If I Hear Grinding Noise When Braking At Low Speeds?
Creaking and grinding noises at any speed requires a solution. Check your brake pads and rotors first. Brake pad wear is the most common culprit for grinding noises. If your pads have worn out, replace them immediately and try driving again. If you still hear grinding noises, call in an expert to inspect your braking systems.
Can I Continue Driving If Brakes Are Making A Grinding Noise?
It’s not a good idea to drive around with a grinding noise. If your brakes are making a grinding noise, it is probably a serious symptom of a problem. Most likely, the brake pads or brake rotors are badly worn and need to be replaced. Grinding brakes greatly compromise your car’s stopping ability, resulting in dangerous and expensive driving conditions. You should get the brakes inspected and repaired as soon as you can.
How Often Should I Have My Brakes Inspected?
It’s a good idea to have your brakes inspected every year or at least every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. But if you hear any new sounds, such as grinding, squeaking, or squealing, or feel a noticeable decrease in braking performance, have your brakes inspected as soon as possible, again, regardless of when the last inspection was.
Can Debris Cause Grinding Noises When Braking?
Yes, the sound could also be caused by small stones or dirt between the brake rotors and the calipers. If you think that a build-up of debris is the culprit, schedule a brake inspection and cleaning with your local repair shop. They’ll be able to remove the debris safely and ensure your brakes work as intended.
Why Do Brakes Make Grinding Noise At Low Speeds?
Grinding sounds at slower speeds can also be an issue due to the different physics that come into play at slower speeds versus faster ones. If you’re driving slower than 20 or 25 miles an hour, there might not be enough pressure placed on the brakes to mask some of the sounds that can emanate from worn brake pads or some debris passing by. Rust or grooves on rotors are also sometimes more obvious at slower speeds. At any speed, grinding sounds should always be taken as an indicator of braking issues that need to be checked by an experienced mechanic.
Conclusion
Sometimes, when your vehicle is braking at low speed, you will hear the noise of grinding. This indicates that something is unhealthy with your braking system. It might be worn brake pads, dirt, rust, or defective parts.
These require attending attention as soon as possible to avoid accidents and prevent other failures for your vehicle.
The brake system will always be secure if you do some maintenance regularly and choose suitable parts.
