Braking Noise: Causes of Rubbing, Squealing, and Other Unusual Sounds

Brakes are one of the most crucial safety components of a vehicle. When a strange noise occurs during braking, it should never be ignored. Whether it’s a grinding noise while braking, a high-pitched squeal, a clunking sound, or a noise coming from the front wheels, these signals are often the first indicators of a problem that requires inspection or repair.

In this article, we help you understand the different causes of brake noises based on their type, and offer tips on brake maintenance and repair to ensure your safety on the road. 

Different types of brake noise mean different causes

Your car can make several types of noises when braking. Each of these sounds may be linked to one or more possible causes, so here’s an overview.

Grinding noise when braking

A grinding noise when braking is often caused by normal wear of the components or by the presence of debris (sand, gravel, rust) between the brake pad and the rotor. This sound, sometimes similar to a soft metallic scraping, is often intermittent.

Possible causes:

• Dirty rotors or brake pads
• Debris lodged between components
• Worn-out brake pads
• Missing or misaligned anti-rattle shim

If this type of noise persists, it’s important to have your brakes inspected promptly to avoid premature wear on the rotors.

Squeaking noise when braking

The squeaking noise when braking, especially when cold or during the first brakes of the day, is a common issue. This high-pitched sound is often caused by brake pads that lack an anti-noise layer or are of poor quality.

Common causes:

• Low-quality brake pads
• Glazed or rough brake discs
• Advanced wear of the pads (metal-to-metal contact)
• Moisture or surface rust on the discs

Tip: Even if this noise may disappear after a few brakes, it should not be taken lightly if it becomes constant. An inspection is recommended.

3. Whistling or high-pitched noise when braking

A high-pitched braking noise, such as a metallic whistle, is often related to brake pads that are too hard or improperly installed.

What this may indicate:

• Worn-out brake pads
• Poor fit or lack of lubrication on the brake pad supports
• Use of parts incompatible with your vehicle model

A prompt intervention prevents damage to the brake disc, which could lead to more costly repairs.

4. Noise when braking with new brake pads

It is normal for noise when braking to occur after installing new brake pads, especially during the break-in period. However, if the brake pad noise from your car persists beyond a few days, it may indicate an installation problem or incompatibility, such as:

• Poor quality or incompatible brake pads
• Lack of lubrication on contact points
• Worn or warped brake discs

Tip: Always choose parts of equal or higher quality than the original to ensure quiet and effective braking.

5. Brake disc noise or vibrations

A brake disc noise or vibrations when braking (shaking steering wheel) generally indicate a warped or worn disc.

Associated symptoms:

• Vibrations in the steering wheel or brake pedal
• Dull or pounding noise when braking
• Uneven wear of the brake pads

Solution: Replace or resurface the discs depending on their condition.

6. ABS system noise when braking

ABS noise when braking is normal in certain situations, such as during an emergency stop. The anti-lock system then produces a rapid vibrating or clicking sound.

ABS noise when braking: Normal or not?

• ✅ Normal: brief noise during sudden braking on slippery surfaces.
• ❌ Abnormal: constant noise or unintended activation of the ABS system.

If you hear this noise from the ABS system without an emergency braking situation, an inspection is necessary. It could be a faulty sensor or an electronic issue.

7. Front wheel braking noise

A braking noise coming from the front wheel obviously indicates that the front wheels are the source. This noise can be particularly concerning as it is often more audible inside the cabin. It may be a squeaking, clicking, or rubbing sound.

Checks to perform:

• Play in the wheel bearings
• Brake caliper improperly secured or seized
• Warped or worn brake discs
• Misalignment or incorrect installation

The mechanics at Trans-Mico Automotive are equipped to accurately diagnose this type of noise.

Braking noise: The brakes are not always to blame!

A noise heard during braking does not necessarily come from the brakes themselves. Other components such as the car suspension, wheel bearings, transmission, worn engine mounts, or even poorly secured body parts can produce similar sounds, such as clicking, squeaking, or humming. These noises are often amplified by weight transfer or vibrations created during braking. That’s why a professional diagnosis is essential to accurately identify the source of the noise and avoid unnecessary repairs.

How to maintain your brakes to avoid noise?

Proper maintenance of your braking system helps prevent most abnormal noises. Here are some good practices to follow:

Preventive brake maintenance:

• Have your brakes inspected at every tire change or every 10,000 km.
• Regularly clean the braking components, especially in winter (salt and dirt).
• Use brake pads and discs of recognized quality (OEM or higher).
• Install anti-noise shims if they are not included.

Signs of wear to watch for:

• Increased braking distance
• Frequent or constant noises
• Brake warning light on
• Soft or overly stiff brake pedal

When to consult a specialist?

As soon as you hear an unusual noise when braking, even if occasional, it’s best to consult a professional. The sooner the diagnosis, the less likely the repairs will be costly.

At Trans-Mico Automotive, we offer:

• Complete brake system inspection
• Replacement of pads, discs, and calipers
• Repair of ABS and electronic brakes
• Seasonal maintenance to prevent corrosion and premature wear

Hearing a strange noise when braking? Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Book an appointment at our shop for a quick inspection. 

Please note that if your car makes noise while driving—not just when braking—you can check out our previous article on the topic.

Trans-Mico Automotive is your trusted partner for all your brake and mechanical noise issues. We use top-quality parts and provide fast, honest, and guaranteed service.

Sources:
NAPA Auto Pro. 10 Ways Your Car Is Telling You It Needs Brake Service.
Trans-Mico Automotive. Should noisy brakes be cause for concern?