Why Are My Brakes Grinding When I Stop?

Car brakes grinding when you slow or stop in New Orleans is an unmistakable sound, and it’s certainly one no driver wants to hear. You’re often left to wonder, “Why are my brakes grinding?” The primary cause of brakes making a grinding noise could be tied to one of several brake system components. In the guide below, the Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc. service center will help you learn how to identify why your brakes are grinding. 

Do You Hear the Brakes Grinding When Stopping?

When you hear the brakes grinding in Metairie, does it occur only when you’re stopping? Brakes grinding when stopping or slowing could be caused by:

• If the brakes are making a grinding noise only when stopping or slowing, you probably just need to change the brake pads. Over time, brake pads start thinning. First, the thinning will cause the telltale squealing noise, known as brake scrubbing. Eventually, the squealing will turn into a grinding sound, meaning the brake pads are even thinner. 
• Does the brake grinding noise have a sharper quality? You may be dealing with the brake disc and calipers, which can be confirmed by an accompanying rumble in the brake pedal. A disc or rotor replacement would be necessary here, potentially in addition to a brake pad replacement. 
• Are the brakes grinding when stopping suddenly and at full force? You may need to have the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) inspected. The ABS only activates during hard braking and you might feel the brake pedal vibrate as well. 

Do You Hear the Brakes Making a Grinding Noise When Driving?

This question may be confusing at first because you don’t press the brake pedal when you’re propelling forward on Belle Chasse roads. However, it’s possible to hear the brakes grinding and other strange noises while you’re driving. This can happen when rocks and other debris make their way into the brake system, bouncing off the caliper and rotor. Fortunately, all that’s needed is a quick service appointment to remove the debris! Just don’t wait too long, because the debris can damage your brake system.

Have Your Brakes Inspected at Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc.

Looking for brake service in Harvey? We’ve got you covered at Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc.! We’ll inspect your brake system and fix any existing issues, so you no longer have to listen to the brakes grinding. Contact us at your convenience for more information about our services, or take a moment to review our service specials. We often offer brake service coupons to keep your maintenance budget-friendly!