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Is Brake Noise a Sign That You Need Brake Repair?

Brakes are one of the most important safety features in cars. Therefore, many drivers worry when they hear brake noise. Is such a noise a sign that you need brake repair? Sometimes it is. However, noisy brakes don’t necessarily mean malfunctioning brakes.

Brake noise can be affected by different driving conditions, such as dusty or sandy conditions, severe braking, humidity, etc. Newer cars have semi-metallic brake pads which are harder and can create a high-pitched noise. Semi-metallic brake pads are safer and longer lasting than traditional asbestos material. Also, a high-pitched squeal frequently happens on smaller cars, and some brands can be noisier than others.

Brake rattle

In most cases, you hear a brake rattle when you let off the pedal. The sound is usually caused by the brake pads. They can rattle due to heat expansion. The rattle should not be continual. Also, it should not occur while your foot is on the brake pedal. In either of these cases, you should have your brakes inspected by a professional, as the problem could be serious.

Brake Grinding

Brake grinding is a serious problem. This is why you should go to an auto shop as soon as it happens. Brake grinding usually happens for two reasons. If your brakes make a loud grinding sound when you press on the pedal, this means that the rotor disc is in contact with part of the caliper. This is caused by extreme wear to the rotors or brake pads.

Another reason for brake grinding can be a foreign object (like, for example, a stone) that is lodged in the caliper. If such is the case, the brakes usually make a continuous screeching or grinding sound while the vehicle is running. A foreign object can cause expensive damage to the brake mechanism, so try to remove it. You can free your car of the object by moving the car forward and backward repeatedly in a safe place. If this doesn’t work, you should see your auto mechanic.

Whenever you suspect problems with your brakes it is important to have an expert look at them and perform the necessary brake repair. In Mt Airy, MD, a good auto repair shop to consider is Spikes Auto Care & Tire.