Squeaking or grinding brakes

What the noise is telling you

A high-pitched squeal when you brake

Many brake pads have a small metal tab that squeals when the pad is nearly worn out. It’s designed to warn you, so get the brakes checked soon. Light squeaking for the first few stops on a damp morning is often just surface rust on the discs and clears quickly.

Grinding or a harsh metallic scrape

Usually means the pad material has worn away and metal is rubbing on the disc. This needs attention straight away: braking is weaker, and the discs are being damaged with every stop.

Judder or vibration through the pedal or steering wheel

Often warped or unevenly worn discs. It can feel like the steering shakes when you brake from speed.

Squeal or rub that’s there all the time

A sticking calliper, a stone caught between the disc and its shield, or a handbrake that isn’t fully releasing. If one wheel is much hotter than the others after a drive, a sticking brake is likely.

Other signs your brakes need checking

• The car pulls to one side when you brake.
• The pedal feels soft, spongy or goes further down than usual.
• A brake warning light is on (red: stop and get help; see engine warning light).
• A burning smell after braking, or one wheel much hotter than the rest.

Is it safe to drive?

A light squeal from the wear indicator means book a check soon, but you can usually drive carefully until then. Grinding, a soft pedal, pulling to one side or a red brake warning light are urgent: drive gently to a garage only if it’s close, or arrange recovery.

What a garage will do

A mechanic will remove the wheels and measure the pads and discs, check the callipers and slide pins move freely, look for fluid leaks and check the brake fluid. Pads are often replaced in pairs on the same axle, and discs replaced too if they’re worn below their minimum thickness or warped. Ask to see the old parts, and get a quote before the work starts.

Brakes and the MOT

Worn pads or discs, uneven braking between sides, leaks and warning lights can all cause an MOT failure. Getting a squeal checked early is usually cheaper than waiting for the MOT.

Frequently asked questions

Why do my brakes squeak in the morning?

A thin layer of rust forms on the discs overnight, especially in damp weather. If the noise goes after a few stops, it’s normal.

Can new brakes squeak?

Sometimes for the first few hundred miles while the pads bed in. Persistent noise after that should be checked.

How long do brake pads last?

It varies a lot with driving style and the car. Town driving and heavy braking wear them faster than motorway miles.