Why Are My Brakes Grinding?

The metallic scrape of brakes grinding can be enough to make some Atlanta drivers pull over immediately. They’ll at least have you asking, ”Why are my brakes grinding?” When brakes are making grinding noises, it’s your car’s way of telling you it’s time to schedule a service appointment at Five Star Ford Stone Mountain, because your brakes grinding when stopping is a sign that something’s amiss. Take a look at the reasons why your brakes are grinding with Five Star Ford Stone Mountain.

Brakes Grinding When Stopping

The first thing you need to consider is what you were doing when you first heard your brakes grinding. If your brakes are grinding when stopping it might be for a different reason than why they might make noise when you’re driving. Here are the main things that cause brake grinding:

• Brake pads: If you hear brakes making grinding noises when stopping or slowing down, it’s likely time to replace your brake pads. Over time, brake pads lose their thickness and start to make a squealing noise that’s known as “brake scrubbing.” As the pads wear down further, you’ll hear a grinding noise instead.
• Brake disc and calipers: If you hear a sharper grinding noise, it could be the sound of your brake disc and calipers. This may also cause a rumble in your pedal. You might need to replace your brake pads, disc, or rotors.
• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): If you hear brakes grinding when stopping at full force, it could be your Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS).Your ABS will activate if you apply the full brakes, and it may even cause vibrations in the pedal.

Brakes Grinding When Driving

If you hear your brakes grinding while you’re driving in Snellville or Loganville, it could just be dirt and debris bouncing off the caliper or rotor. If you’re experienced with cars, you can try to remove any debris yourself. Or, if you’re more comfortable leaving that job to the professionals, bring your car to us as soon as possible so the debris doesn’t cause friction damage.

Save on Brake Service at Five Star Ford Stone Mountain

Are your brakes making grinding noises while driving or stopping? Whether your brakes are making a grinding noise or feel squishy when you hit them, Five Star Ford Stone Mountain can help! Save money with our FordPass brake specials! If you’d like to learn more about how your car functions and easy ways to keep it on the move, visit our service tips.