Solutions if the disc brake drags: tips and tricks!

Reading time 4 Min.

Grinding noises while driving are a familiar but often worrying phenomenon for many people. Especially if they come from the Brakes going out, it is important to know how to react to it. In this article you will learn everything you need to know about the causes of grinding brakeshow you can remedy the situation yourself and when a trip to the workshop becomes unavoidable. The question "Where do the grinding noises come from when driving?“ can have different answers. Often it is the brakes where the friction between brake disc and brake pads causing such noises. But the brakes are not always the reason. Sometimes one can also defective wheel bearing, fan belt, the hand brake or the Power steering pump be the cause. A common cause of grinding noises are Rust and moisture. This particularly occurs if the car has not been moved for a long time.

if the disc brake rubs

It can also be an incomplete solution hand brake which cause grinding noises, especially on cold days when it may be frozen solid. In the case of rust and moisture, simply driving and braking lightly can often help you safely clean the pads. Is the hand brake the cause, try tightening and loosening it several times. At a frozen handbrake Warming up the vehicle can help. If these simple solutions do not help, there could be a technical defect. Worn ones are common Brake pads or Brake discs the reason. If in addition to grinding too brake fluid leaks or the wheels are stiff, this indicates that there is a problem more serious defect out.

It's better not to ignore noises

The consequences of neglected, dragging brakes can be serious. overheating and Glazing the brake pads lead to a significant reduction in braking effect, which is a significant safety risk. If the grinding noise persists, it is more than advisable to go to the workshop. The cause can be quickly diagnosed and remedied there. On many websites You can easily make an appointment for a brake check online. Before doing so, you should have several offers from Specialist workshops near you compare. The brakes are an essential part of the vehicle and must always be in perfect condition. Therefore, pay attention to signs such as grinding noises and act early to avoid major damage and risks.

FAQ: Solutions for dragging car brakes

1. What causes dragging brakes?
   • Brake pad wear: Most common cause; the brake pads are worn and need to be replaced.
   • Deformed brake discs: Heat or stress can cause brake discs to warp, resulting in grinding noises.
   • Foreign body: Small stones or dirt between the brake disc and pad.
   • Corrosion: Rust formation on the brake discs, especially after a long period of standstill.
2. How to check the problem?
   • Visual inspection: Check the thickness of the brake pads and the condition of the brake discs.
   • Listen: Pay attention to the type of grinding noise to better identify the cause.
   • Specialist workshop: If you are unsure or have complex problems, a professional diagnosis should be carried out in a workshop.
3. Are dragging brakes a safety risk?
   • Yes: Grinding brakes can affect braking performance and lead to longer stopping distances or even brake failure.
4. Can I continue driving if my brakes are dragging?
   • Not recommended: It is advisable to fix the problem as soon as possible to avoid security risks.
5. How do you fix dragging brakes?
   • Changing brake pads: If the brake pads are worn out.
   • Check/replace brake discs: If these are damaged or warped.
   • Removing foreign objects: Careful cleaning to remove foreign objects.
   • Rust removal: Light rust can often be removed by normal braking; More severe rust may require replacing the brake rotor.
6. How to avoid future problems?
   • Regular maintenance: Check brake pads and discs regularly.
   • Avoiding extreme stress: Avoid hard braking maneuvers that lead to rapid wear.
   • Protection against rust: Avoid standing for long periods, primarily outdoors and in damp conditions.
7. How much does it cost to repair rubbing brakes?
   • Costs vary: depending on the type of repair and the vehicle. Changing brake pads is usually cheaper than replacing brake discs.
8. Can dragging brakes cause further damage?
   • Yes: Left untreated, dragging brakes can cause further damage to the brake system and adjacent parts, increasing repair costs.

What not everyone knows!

• self repair
  • • Only advisable if you have sufficient specialist knowledge
• expert opinion
  • Normal grinding is common for disc brakes
  • High humidity → increased rust film → more pressure on coverings
  • Technically harmless
• Stiff wheels
  • Technical problem sign
  • Repairs often necessary
  • Partial replacement may not be necessary
• solutions
  • Brake pads or caliper make it viable
  • overheating and Glazing of the coverings avoid
• Repair duration
  • Mostly under 30 Minutes
• Parking brake
  • Often cable operated
  • Stuck can cause grinding noises
  • Apply the handbrake and lubricate the cable
• Uneven wear on disc brakes
  • No security risk
  • May cause noise when reversing
• Tilted brake pads
  • They attach themselves to the brake disc when braking
  • No reason to worry

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