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Security & TechWhy Is My Car Making a Grinding Noise When I Brake?
By Sun Garage, Owner, Sun Garage · 1 June 2026 · 5 min read
Grinding brakes need urgent attention
Grinding, scraping, or metal-on-metal noises when you brake are a warning that something is wrong and needs fixing soon. Unlike squeaking (which is usually just wear indicators), grinding means the brake pads have worn through to the metal backing, or something else is stuck in the system.
At Sun Garage in West Bromwich, we see grinding brakes regularly — and the sooner you get them checked, the less damage happens to your discs and calipers.
Common causes of grinding brakes
There are several reasons your brakes might grind. Identifying the cause helps us fix it and prevent bigger problems.
Worn brake pads
This is the most common cause. Brake pads are designed to wear over time, and when they reach the end of their life, the friction material runs out. What remains is the metal backing plate, which then rubs against the disc and makes a grinding noise.
If you ignore it, the disc gets scored and damaged, which means you will need to replace both the pads and the discs — a much bigger bill.
Stone or debris in the brake system
Sometimes a small stone or bit of debris gets stuck between the brake pad and disc. This can cause grinding or scraping sounds, especially on full braking or cornering.
We can often remove the wheel and extract the debris, fixing the problem without needing new parts.
Seized or sticking caliper
A caliper that has seized or is sticking unevenly can cause one pad to wear much faster than the other. The metal backing then contacts the disc, causing grinding. This also happens when the caliper is not releasing fully after you take your foot off the pedal.
Rust or corrosion on the disc
If your car has sat unused for a while, rust can build up on the brake disc. This can cause grinding or scraping at first, but usually clears after a few braking cycles.
What we check when you bring it in
We will lift the car on ramps and inspect all four wheels. We look at pad thickness, disc condition, caliper condition, and whether anything else is loose or stuck.
- Brake pad wear — how much material is left?
- Disc condition — are they smooth or scored and uneven?
- Caliper operation — do they move freely and release properly?
- Dust covers and seals — are they split or damaged?
- Wheel bearings — any play or noise?
Why you should act quickly
Ignoring grinding brakes does not make them go away — it makes them worse. Once the metal backing plate is touching the disc, you are doing damage every time you brake. This is more expensive to repair and affects your braking performance.
Safe braking is non-negotiable. Call us on 0121 553 0296 to get your brakes checked as soon as possible.
Safety first: If your brakes feel soft, spongy, or do not respond properly, do not drive the car. Call us immediately.