Why Are My Brakes Grinding?

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You're driving like it's a normal day in Lakeland. Then you hear a metallic noise when you hit the brakes. Your vehicle comes to a stop just fine. However, you're worried about the brakes making a grinding noise because that's new. You're probably asking, "Why are my brakes grinding?" 

We'll be blunt. Any noise coming from your brakes needs to be looked at promptly. Brakes making a grinding noise are a sign that they are nearing the point when they need to be replaced. And faulty brakes can lead to accidents and unsafe driving conditions on Lakeland Highlands roads. The National Highway Safety Administration states that faulty brakes could be a factor in as many as 25% of all road accidents. 

Thus, you should probably schedule service with the team at Subaru Lakeland ASAP. Until we can diagnose the issue, read our answer to the question, "Why are my brakes grinding?"

Service Specials Service Tips

Brakes Grinding When Stopping

First, notice when your brakes are making grinding noises. Are your brakes grinding when stopping? This could be caused by a few things.

  • If you hear your brakes making a grinding noise when stopping or slowing down, your brake pads are probably wearing out. This is normal. Brake pads lose their thickness and will start making a squealing noise, known as brake scrubbing, to let you know that it's time for them to be replaced. As the pads wear down further, you'll hear a grinding noise. Grinding means your brakes need service immediately.
  • If you hear a sharper grinding noise, it could be the sound of your brake disc and calipers. This problem could also cause a rumble in the brake pedal. You might need new brake pads, rotors, and calipers with this diagnosis.
  • If you hear brakes grinding when stopping as you slam on the brake pedal, 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. But a grinding noise here means you need to have your brakes checked as soon as you are able.

Brakes Grinding When Driving

If your brakes are making a grinding noise as you're driving through Winter Haven, this problem could stem from rocks and debris bouncing off the caliper and rotor. This is an easier fix, but you should still have a professional look at it. 

Rocks and debris aren't critical. However, they can cause more damage if they accumulate and keep bouncing around. Our service department near Bartow can examine your vehicle and solve your brakes making a grinding noise for good with our expert car care.

Schedule Service With Subaru Lakeland

Looking for a final answer to the question "Why are my brakes grinding?" We can tell you for sure with our factory-trained service technicians near Lake Wales. Contact us, call (863)-591-7184, or schedule service with our team. We're happy to help in any way we can!