Why Are My Brakes Grinding?

At the Lafayette GMC service center, one of the most common questions we get is, “Why are my brakes grinding?” Whether you notice your brakes grinding when stopping or hear a strange noise while driving around Indianapolis, this is an issue that should be addressed immediately. Explore the potential causes in our guide below, then schedule an appointment with us in Lafayette.

Brakes Grinding When Stopping

First, when do you notice your brakes making grinding noises? If you notice your brakes grinding when stopping, it could be for a few different reasons:

• If you hear the sound when stopping or slowing down, your brake pads are probably the culprit. Over time, brake pads lose their thickness and start to make a squealing noise – known as “brake scrubbing.” As the pads wear down further, you’ll hear a grinding noise instead.
• If you hear a sharper grinding noise, it could be the sound of your brake disc and calipers. This may also cause a rumble in your pedal. This may require a brake pad replacement and disc or rotor replacement.
• If you hear brakes grinding when stopping at full force, 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. 

Brakes Grinding When Driving

If your brakes are making a grinding noise when you are driving throughout Frankfort, it could just be rocks and debris bouncing off the caliper and rotor. This is an easy service, but it’s important to get it resolved quickly to prevent more damage from accumulating. You can try to remove the debris yourself if you have experience with cars, but most Delphi drivers prefer to leave the job to our service department. You can also schedule an inspection while you’re here to resolve your brake grinding for good.

Schedule an Appointment at Lafayette GMC Today

We hope this guide has helped you figure out why your brakes are grinding. Whether you need a brake pad replacement or assistance with diagnosing the issue, our service experts have you covered. Contact us online or at (765) 257-2964 today, and be sure to check out our service specials.