Why Brakes may be Causing Noises
There are numerous reasons why brakes may be causing noises but some of them are life threatening. Any automobile with disc brakes is subject to having unusual sounds when the brakes are applied.Vehicles that are exposed to snow and salt can have their brake discs become covered with a layer of rust overnight. The pads are often covered with an accumulation of dirt and salt. This rust and salt along with the dirt can cause the brakes to have a grinding sound similar to when they are worn or damaged.
In most of these instances, the noise will dissipate with just a few applications of the pedal. This practice should only be followed when the driver knows the vehicle is a very low mileage vehicle and nothing unusual has happened to it other than messy road conditions. If the noise does not stop an inspection of the brake pads and wheel discs should be made immediately.
While no one wants to have his or her car towed needlessly, it is better to stop the car and err on the safe side than to have an accident. Noise means something is happening to the brakes that is not normal. A professional or a very experienced mechanic should diagnose any abnormal sound before continuing to use the vehicle.Most brake pads are designed with a small metal tab that will contact the disc when the pads are worn but are still safe to use for a short time. The sound is a warning to the driver that the pads should be inspected and all brake parts refreshed and replaced as soon as possible.For a small fee, most garages will remove the tire and wheel the same as they would to change a flat. They can then easily inspect the brakes. The fee is usually refunded if they perform the repairs.Driving in dirt and mud can cause brake noise similar to those from driving in salt and snow. The noise should clear up as the brakes are used, but an inspection should not be put off.Brakes that have recently been serviced are sometimes subject to parts that were not properly fitted coming loose and causing noise. These loose parts can cause catastrophic failure along with the noise and need to be corrected immediately.Do not try to drive back to the shop that performed the repair. Have the car towed there or repaired at another shop. Find the noise before driving the car and an accident may be avoided.
