You can quickly come to a hasty conclusion when you hear the hiss of the brakes. However, the problem may well lie elsewhere and turn out to be far less serious than one might have imagined. So let us find out the reason that may be behind this mechanical issue.
One of the most common habits among motorists is to listen carefully to see if their vehicle is making a suspicious noise. A gesture justified by a concern for possible unpleasant surprises. At the slightest noise, we tend to directly suspect a problem at the level brake pads. If so, rest assured that the problem could be less serious and costly than expected.
Checking the brake discs of a car – Source: spm
The problem might not have anything to do with replacing the brake pads, which is usually expensive. Before going straight to the garage, know that the problem could be much easier to solve:
What you need to know in advance about brake pads
When installing new brake pads, these you have to adapt to the shape of the discs. A necessary break-in period before they can reach their maximum efficiency, which is usually between 300 km and 500 km. Also, if these pads haven’t been snug enough, they can start to whistle after this break-in period has passed.
Car brakes – Source: spm
Therefore, your mechanic may have been lacking in accuracy when repairing your vehicle. In fact, you may have forgotten to remove dust and rust residue on your brake discs. Consequently, the contact between the new brake pads and the disc cannot be optimally guaranteed.
What to do to avoid the hiss of the brake pads
Rusty disc- Source: spm
Good news, in principle you only have to perform a cleaning of the brake pads to solve the problem. Optionally, you can also lubricate them. If you feel like it, you can very well do the cleaning after you have safely raised your vehicle.
Therefore, you can get a specific product for brake discs, as well as a metal brush. Start by removing the wheel and then identify sources of the problem, it could be dust or rust. Finally, apply the cleaning product to the brush to carry out the maintenance operation.
If, on the other hand, and even after cleaning the brakes, the hissing noise persists, do not hesitate to seek the help of a mechanic who may possibly be able to identify the problem. You can also replace the cleaning product, with a mixture of water and baking soda, Perfect for dissolving rust. Whichever product you choose, simply apply it to a cloth and wipe over any parts that show signs of rust. After a few hours, rinse and enjoy the result.
It is also important to remember that there may be braking imbalance if one of your discs is worn and the other is new. To avoid putting yourself in danger, consider making a switch in pairs.
What could be the other reasons behind whistling brakes?
Also note that the origin of the brake whistle it can also be caused by external factors.
In cold weather, frost can be deposited on the brake pads and discs. Remedy, feel free to drive for a few minutes at medium speed.
Another factor that could cause brake noise is the presence of foreign objects in the brake system. Could be a piece of branch, pieces of leaves or even a pebble. In such a case, it is better to remove the wheel and then the braking system to identify the object in question. It can also be heavy dirt that can affect the function of the brakes. Unless you are a mechanic at heart and have the right equipment, enlisting the help of a mechanic will be the wisest decision to consider.
Taking these tips into account, emergency braking will no longer be a danger since you will have previously checked the good condition of your brake pads. Of course, it is always advisable to go to your mechanic to make sure.
read also What happens to the car when you hit the brake and the accelerator at the same time?
