Why Are My Brakes Grinding?

To hear your brakes grinding when you’re out and about in Virginia Beach is a common occurrence, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. Brakes making a grinding noise typically points to an underlying problem that needs to be addressed, such as worn-out brake pads. So, if you’re asking yourself, “Why are my brakes grinding?” the service center at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk is here to help. Read on to explore some of the most common causes of brakes grinding. 

Common Reasons for Brakes Grinding When Stopping

In order to get to the bottom of why your brakes are making a grinding noise, you need to identify when you hear the brakes grinding. If you only hear the brakes grinding when stopping, here are some common causes:

• Brakes grinding when stopping or slowing down in Chesapeake often means the brake pads are worn out. Over time, brake pads grow thinner and thinner. If you let them get thin enough without replacing them, you’ll eventually hear a squealing sound which is known as “brake scrubbing.” Soon enough, the squealing will turn into a grinding noise, at which point the brake pads are very thin and overdue for replacement.
• Is there a sharper quality to your brakes grinding? This could be the sound of the brake disc and calipers. In addition to the brakes making a grinding noise, you might also feel a rumble in the brake pedal. Often, you’ll need a brake pad replacement as well as a disc or rotor replacement to remedy this issue. 
• Do you only hear the brakes grinding when stopping at full force? This is probably the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). The ABS is programmed to intervene when the full brakes are applied, and you’ll often feel vibrations in the brake pedal as well.

Are Your Brakes Grinding When Driving?

It’s also possible to hear the brakes making a grinding noise while you’re driving in Suffolk. This often means there are rocks and debris caught in the brake system, bouncing off the caliper and rotor. Here, the remedy is as simple as removing the debris, which you might even be able to accomplish at home. The important thing is that you don’t wait too long to remove the debris, as it can eventually cause significant damage to the brake system. If you’re not prepared to try this service at home, you can schedule a service appointment at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk and our technicians will take care of everything quickly. 

Schedule Brake Service in Norfolk

When your brakes are making a grinding noise, count on Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk for trusted brake service in Norfolk. No driver should have to take on their commute with potentially faulty brakes, so we provide ongoing service specials and service financing options to help make vital brake maintenance more affordable. With any questions, please contact us or call us at (757) 271-1678 and we’ll be glad to assist you!