Why Is My Car Making a Grinding Noise When I Brake?

1 January 2026 · 5 min read

Worn brake pads — the most common cause

Brake pads have a friction material bonded onto a metal backing plate. As the friction material wears, a small metal wear indicator built into the pad contacts the disc and produces a high-pitched squeal — an intentional warning. If that squeal is ignored and the pad continues to wear, the metal backing plate contacts the disc directly and produces a grinding noise.

At the grinding stage, the disc surface is being scored. Left long enough, this damages the disc to the point where replacement is needed — turning a straightforward pad-only job into a discs-and-pads job at significantly higher cost. If you are hearing any grinding under braking, book an inspection promptly. The longer it is left, the more expensive the repair becomes.

Other causes of grinding under braking

Stone ingress is a common cause that is easy to overlook. A small piece of grit or road debris can become trapped between the pad and the disc, causing grinding or scraping that may come and go depending on speed and load. This can sometimes resolve itself, but if the noise persists it needs investigating to rule out disc damage.

A seized brake caliper is another cause — it holds the pad in partial contact with the disc even when the brake pedal is not pressed. This creates continuous wear on that corner, and is usually accompanied by the car pulling to one side under braking, heat from the affected wheel, or a burning smell after a run. Caliper seizure affects braking efficiency and should be addressed quickly.

What to expect when you bring it in

We remove the wheels, measure pad thickness and disc depth on all four corners, and inspect the caliper operation. We give you a clear picture of what needs replacing now and what can be monitored before committing to any work. There is no charge for the inspection itself.

We carry common brake pads and discs for most mainstream vehicles in stock and can usually complete brake work the same day. Call 07494 990846 to book a brake inspection at the Brierley Hill workshop.

Book a brake inspection in Brierley Hill →

Need help with your car?

Talk to the team at Nick and Stefan Motor Works in Brierley Hill — honest advice and a straightforward booking.

Call 07494 990846