Why do my car brakes squeal or grind?
Quick answer
Squeal usually means worn pads or glazed surfaces; grinding means metal is meeting metal and the pads are done — stop driving hard and get it inspected. Rain or dust can cause temporary noise, but persistent noise means an inspection is due.
Pads wear quietly; the noise arrives near the end of their life. Grinding that starts after a squeal phase suggests the wear indicator has passed and discs may be scoring — which turns a pad replacement into a disc job. Brake inspection is part of every periodic service, and pad replacement is a doorstep job.
Related questions
Is it safe to drive with noisy brakes?
Reduce driving and get it inspected — grinding in particular means stopping power is compromised.
Can pads be replaced at home?
Yes — pad replacement is a doorstep job, with discs measured to confirm whether they are reusable.
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