Brake Noise Problems

Functional brakes can be vital to your safety while driving, so it's important to pay attention to any sounds they make. Some brake sounds are normal, while others suggest something is wrong.

Interpreting Sounds

Brakes make a lot of different sounds while you're driving, but only a few of them are worth worrying about. If you hear a loud screeching sound that's constantly present, your brakes probably need to be replaced. According to experts at "Road and Travel Magazine", occasional low whines, grinding noises, and other infrequent sounds are considered normal and aren't usually a cause for concern.

Different Brakes Make Different Sounds

Older brakes are made using asbestos, which was generally less prone to noises. Newer brakes are often made with more metal, and when metal hits metal, it tends to screech. Organic brake pads are designed for less noisy operation. Knowing which kind of brakes you have can help you determine how much noise is normal.

Trust Your Instincts

If you have a genuine concern about a brake noise and you think it goes beyond the normal squeaks and squeals, you should have your car checked out. There's always a chance that it's no big deal, but if something seems wrong, there's no reason to risk it.

References

• "Road and Travel Magazine": Brakes -- What's All the Noise About?