Brake noise is not as uncommon as most car owners would like it to be. It turns out that there are plenty of reasons you might be hearing brake noise and those reasons can range from minor to major. Star Motors European has this advice for you.
Wear Tabs in the Brake Pads
As the brake pads wear down, they eventually hit something called the wear tabs. These are designed to make a little bit of noise as you use the brakes, letting you know it’s time to get the brake pads switched out. Not all brake pads have wear tabs, however, so the sounds may come from something else.
Rotor Problems
The brake pads press up against the rotors, which is how the car stops. Over time, the brake pads aren’t the only piece that shows wear. The rotors start to experience wear, too, and need to be turned. Squealing can be one of the first signs that there’s an issue with the rotors.
The Brakes Are Too Hot
When any parts of the brake system get too hot, this can cause issues with the entire system. From glazing which forms on the brake pads to pressure on the calipers and rotors, when your brakes are overheated they can get loud. This can be due to overuse or an indication that there’s something not quite right.
Debris in the Braking System
There’s a lot of stuff that can get in the way of your brake system doing its job. Because you’re on the road, you’re constantly getting dirt, road debris, and more kicking up around the wheels and therefore around the brakes. When the brakes get too much gunk built up, that can cause some noise.
Moisture in the Brakes
Another issue that’s common for brakes is that moisture builds up. Whether that’s from rain or from morning dew, damp brakes are going to make some noise. The good news is that the moisture tends to burn off fairly quickly, so if this is the cause of your brake noise it will stop relatively soon.
Letting the Car Sit
If you’re not in the habit of using your European car as your daily driver, it might be a while between outings. When that happens, thin layers of rust, dust, and moisture can build up on the brake pads and rotors. You’re likely to hear some noise at first, but it shouldn’t last for the entire trip.
Need help deciphering your brake noise? Star Motors European in San Juan Capistrano, CA can help you to diagnose the trouble with your European car’s brakes. Once you know the cause, you can work toward a solution.
