What Does it Mean if My Brakes are Grinding?

Have you heard your brakes making a grinding noise while out and about in Morrisville? Brakes grinding usually indicates an underlying issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. It’s not always convenient to bring your car in for an unexpected service visit, but brake service should not be put off—according to the National Highway Safety Administration, bad brakes are thought to play a role in up to 25% of all road accidents. Schedule a service visit at Hendrick Cadillac Cary to get started, then take a look at some potential causes of brakes grinding when stopping in the guide below.

Why are My Brakes Grinding When I Stop?

In order to determine why your brakes are grinding, you have to consider when you hear the grinding noise. If the brakes are grinding when stopping, here are some common suspects:

• Brakes grinding when slowing to a stop in Apex usually indicates a brake pad problem. Brake pads are thick when they’re new, but they start to thin down over time, which causes a high-pitched squealing sound known as brake scrubbing. Eventually, the squealing turns into a grinding noise. At this point, the brake pads need to be replaced.
• If the brakes are making a sharp grinding noise, your service tech should look at the brake disc and calipers as a possible cause. The sharp grinding noise may be accompanied by a rumble felt in the brake pedal. In addition to a disc or rotor replacement, the brake pads might also require replacement.
• If the brakes are grinding when stopping suddenly and at full force, it may be the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) that needs attention. The ABS is only triggered when the full brakes are applied, often causing vibrations in the brake pedal, as well.

Why are My Brakes Grinding When I’m Driving?

Are your brakes grinding when you’re driving along in Durham? There may be rocks and other road debris caught in the caliper and rotor. This is a common problem with an easy solution, but you can’t wait too long to have it taken care of. If the debris continues to bounce around in the brake system, it will eventually cause damage to essential components. If you’re confident with at-home car maintenance, you might manage to clean out the rocks and dirt on your own. Or, you can bring your car to your preferred service department. While it’s in the service lane, it doesn’t hurt to have the brakes inspected to be sure there isn’t any damage.

Looking for Brake Service in Cary?

If your brakes are making a grinding noise, you can count on the certified technicians at Hendrick Cadillac Cary to find out why. Contact us with any additional questions before your service visit, and don’t forget to check out our service offers to help keep the cost of brake service low. Or you can take a deeper look at what to do when you have a car accident.