Why Are My Brakes Grinding?

You’re doing your regular errands around Miami when you hear a loud metallic sound coming from your vehicle. If you’re asking, “Why are my brakes grinding?” you’ve come to the right place. For those hearing this sound while driving, it’s important to know what’s causing this, as your brakes grinding can indicate severe car problems.

Some Kendall drivers might put off their next brake repair until it’s more convenient. However, as the National Highway Safety Administration has discovered, faulty brakes are a factor in nearly 25% of all road accidents in the United States. In the following guide, South Dade Kia of Miami explores some common reasons why brakes are making grinding noises.

Brakes Grinding When Stopping

As we answer, “Why are my brakes grinding?” let’s discuss the specifics. Are your brakes grinding when stopping? If so, there are several different reasons: 

• For those hearing the sound when slowing down or stopping, your brake pads are the most likely culprit. Over time, brake pads will lose their thickness and start to make a squealing noise, known as “brake scrubbing.” As your pads wear down further, you’ll begin hearing a grinding noise as well.
• If that grinding noise is still sharper, it could be the sound of your brake disc and calipers. This may also be causing a rumble in your peals. As a result, you might need both a brake pad replacement, but also a rotor or disc replacement.
• If your brakes are grinding when stopping at full force, it might be your Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). Your ABS activates when you apply the full brakes and might cause pedal vibrations. 

Brakes Grinding When Driving

Now that you have an answer to why brakes are grinding while stopping, what if your brakes are making a grinding noise when driving? If you’re hearing brakes grinding around Pinecrest, it might just be debris and rocks bouncing off your caliper and rotor. This can be an easy service, but it’s important to get it resolved quickly to prevent additional damage from accumulating.

You might be able to remove the debris yourself, but many drivers prefer leaving the job to our service department. You’ll also be able to schedule an inspection while you’re here to resolve your brakes grinding for good.

Schedule Your Service with South Dade Kia of Miami

Now that you have a better understanding of why your brakes making grinding noises can be a sign of more serious issues, turn to our service staff for all your needs. Whether your brakes are grinding when stopping or otherwise, we can help sort out what you need.

Check out our service specials and see how much you can save on your next visit with us near Miami. If you have additional questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call us at (786) 673-8130 or reach out online with South Dade Kia of Miami!