{"id":8200,"date":"2022-01-21T07:55:03","date_gmt":"2022-01-21T12:55:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.transmico.com\/freins-auto-bruyants\/"},"modified":"2022-12-20T18:33:50","modified_gmt":"2022-12-20T18:33:50","slug":"noisy-brakes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.transmico.com\/en\/noisy-brakes\/","title":{"rendered":"Should noisy brakes be cause for concern?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Should noisy brakes be cause for concern?<\/h1>\n

If there\u2019s one element of your vehicle that never fails to get your attention, it\u2019s the brakes. As they\u2019re synonymous with safety\u2014not only for you, your family and your passengers but also for everyone else on the road\u2014every suspicious noise they make prompts an investigation. And with good reason, as an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Because you use them repeatedly each time you drive, your brakes require regular inspection and maintenance<\/a>. On average, you\u2019ll need to replace them every three or four years. In the meantime, a visit to your mechanic will help you avoid any costly surprises down the road by ensuring that they\u2019re working properly!<\/p>\n

Needless to say, noisy brakes often necessitate a prompt intervention in order to determine the reason for the noise and resolve the problem. But what kind of sounds are we talking about exactly? Where do they seem to be coming from? Learning to identify how and where your brakes are making a noise can inform you regarding which part is affected and how severe the problem is.<\/p>\n

Below is an overview of the noises your brakes might make and the possible complications that could arise as a consequence. However, please bear in mind that this article is solely for informational purposes and is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional advice.<\/p>\n

Different brake noises and their possible causes<\/h2>\n

Who would have imagined? Brakes can make a variety of different sounds, and each one can be the result of a different problem!<\/p>\n

How brakes work<\/h3>\n

When you step on the brake pedal, it pushes a piston into the master cylinder, releasing brake fluid, which then activates the calipers. In turn, the calipers push the brake pads against the discs, thus slowing the vehicle down or stopping it completely.<\/p>\n

Brakes that make a scraping sound<\/h3>\n

What\u2019s at fault? There\u2019s probably something caught between two important parts of the brake system, namely the discs and the calipers. This may include a piece of gravel or other road debris. The result? This friction can quickly ruin the whole braking system. If possible, try dislodging the obstruction by backing up a little ways. Otherwise, you\u2019ll need to call on the services of your mechanic<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Brakes that squeak or squeal<\/h3>\n

Squeaking or squealing brakes are often the result of worn brake pads. In a disc brake system, the pads rub against the discs to slow or stop the wheels from turning. This friction eventually wears down the pads, as well as the discs.<\/p>\n

In a drum brake system, the brake fluid pushes the brake shoes against the inside of the drums to slow or stop the wheels. This friction causes the lining of the brake shoes to wear down. This can quickly lead to the demise of your brakes. Cases like these are usually the result of normal wear and tear on the brakes stemming from prolonged, frequent use. Suffice it to say that you should check to see if the discs are grooved, rusty or worn, especially in the case of used vehicles.<\/p>\n

In general, newer vehicles come equipped with an indicator that will warn you when your brake pads are worn. If it lights up, regardless of whether there\u2019s a squeaking sound, it\u2019s yet another good reason to schedule a visit with your mechanic.<\/p>\n

Brakes that grind<\/h3>\n

The most urgent warning sign is when your brakes make a grinding sound. In this case, severely worn brake pads are at the root of the problem. If you fail to act quickly, you could see other expensive parts such as the calipers or discs give out.<\/p>\n

Brakes that shudder<\/h3>\n

You may also have brakes that vibrate or shimmy. Once again, you can point to the pads as the most likely cause. When they\u2019re worn, the calipers can scrape directly against the rotors, causing grooves. Your mechanic may be able to resurface the discs, but in many cases, it will be necessary to replace them.<\/p>\n

Be aware of more than just the sounds your brakes make<\/h2>\n

You now understand that brake noises are good indicators of a problem with your braking system. However, there are other symptoms you should be on the lookout for in order to prevent a breakdown or accident. It should come as no surprise that your pads, discs or calipers may be to blame if you observe any of the following:<\/p>\n