Why Are My Brakes Grinding?

mechanic-hand-brakes

Hearing a grinding noise from your brakes can be alarming, and for good reason. Faulty brakes are a serious safety concern that shouldn't be ignored. The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) has found that faulty brakes could be a factor in as many as 25% of all road accidents. So, if you're asking: Why are my brakes grinding? It's essential to address the issue immediately. Let's explore the common causes of grinding brakes and what you can do to stay safe on the roads in Frankfort.

Brakes Grinding When Stopping

First, when do you notice your brakes making grinding noises? If you notice your brakes grinding when stopping, it could be for a few different reasons:

 

  • If you hear the sound when stopping or slowing down, your brake pads are probably the culprit. But over time, brake pads lose their thickness and start to make a squealing noise - known as "brake scrubbing." As the pads wear down further, you'll hear a grinding noise instead.
  • 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. This may require a brake pad replacement, but also disc or rotor replacement.
  • 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 your brakes are making a grinding noise when you are driving throughout West Lafayette, it could just be rocks and debris bouncing off the caliper and rotor. This is an easy service, but it's important to get it resolved quickly to prevent more damage from accumulating. You can try to remove the debris yourself if you have experience with cars, but most drivers prefer to leave the job to our service department. You can also schedule an inspection while you're here to resolve your brakes grinding for good.

Schedule Your Brakes Service with Lincoln of Lafayette, IN

Don't ignore the signs of brakes grinding. Whether you're dealing with grinding when stopping or while driving, it's important to resolve the issue promptly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Schedule your brake service at Lincoln of Lafayette, IN, where our expert technicians can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

We provide comprehensive brake inspections, repairs, and replacements to get you back on the road safely, we'll even pick up and drop off your vehicle for added convenience. Contact us today to book your service appointment and stop asking: Why are my brakes grinding? With our service team, you can drive with confidence knowing your brakes are in top condition.