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Why Is My Car Making a Grinding Noise When Braking? Common Causes and What to Do

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Why Does My Car Grind When I Brake?  

“Why does my car grind when I brake?” That’s not just a random thought—it’s a warning your car doesn’t want you to ignore. At Flagship Honda in Caguas, PR, we hear this question a lot, and it usually starts with someone tapping the brakes and hearing something that sounds like metal chewing metal. Not exactly music to your ears. Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your ride. So, when they start getting noisy, it’s time to pay attention. 

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Read more – Why Regular Brake Fluid Changes Are Crucial for Your Safety 

So… What’s That Grinding All About? 

Let’s start with the usual suspects: 

  • Worn brake pads – If you’ve been putting off that brake job, your pads might be toast. When the material wears down, the metal underneath can rub against the rotor—and that’s what creates that awful grinding noise. 
  • Rusty rotors – Puerto Rico’s humid climate doesn’t help. A bit of surface rust is normal, but deep rust or pitting can mess with your braking power and make a nasty racket. 
  • Stuff stuck in the caliper – Little rocks, gravel, or even chunks of road debris can get lodged in the caliper. It’s like your brakes picked up a hitchhiker. 
  • Caliper failure – A sticky or frozen caliper can press the pad into the rotor too hard or unevenly. Grinding may follow. 
  • Low-quality parts – Sometimes cheaper pads wear out faster, or they just don’t get along with your rotors. If you’ve had a recent brake job elsewhere, this might be the culprit. 

Read more – Why Brake Pads Are Crucial: When and Why to Replace Them 

Why Shouldn’t You Ignore This Noise? 

Grinding sounds mean the damage is happening. The longer you wait, the more parts you may have to replace—and that means more dollars flying out of your wallet. Not to mention, your stopping power takes a hit. Not good. 

brake pad replacement service
brake pad replacement service

Read more – Honda Tire Safety: Why Tread Depth Matters in Rain and Shine 

Can I Peek at It Myself? 

If you know what you’re doing and your car is parked somewhere safe, take a look through your wheels. See any grooves or shiny metal-on-metal contact? That’s your cue. But if you’re not sure, skip the guesswork. 

Time to Call the Pros in Caguas, PR! 

If you hear grinding, pulling, or feel vibrations when braking—it’s time to book an inspection. Regular brake checks and timely pad replacements can keep grinding (and panic stops) far away. Bring your car to the service team at Flagship Honda in Caguas, PR. We’ll check your brakes, pinpoint the issue, and get you back on the road safely.