— Fault Library — Middlesbrough
Squealing or Grinding Brakes
Brake noise is one of those things that’s easy to put off, but the type of noise tells you a lot about how urgent it is — and grinding in particular usually means the pads are already gone.
Common Causes
- Worn brake pads — squealing is often a built-in wear indicator
- Pads worn down to metal, causing metal-on-metal grinding against the disc
- A warped or scored brake disc
- Debris or rust build-up, especially after the car has sat unused
Is It Safe to Keep Driving?
A light squeal is usually safe short-term, but grinding is not — it means reduced stopping power and likely damage to the discs as well as the pads, which turns a cheaper repair into a more expensive one. Get grinding brakes looked at as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need pads or discs, or both?
We check both on-site and only recommend replacing what’s actually worn.
How long does a brake job take?
A standard pad replacement is usually completed within an hour or two per axle, including a proper bedding-in of the new pads.
Will this affect my MOT?
Worn pads or discs below the legal minimum are an MOT failure, so it’s worth sorting before your test date if you’re due one soon.