brakes making scraping squeaking sound?

2010 KIA OPTIMA
61,000 MILES
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My front brakes are making a scraping squeaking sound even not being pressed?
Oct 23, 2012 at 2:08 AM
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SQM
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hello,

If the brakes make scraping noise as you are driving it indicates the brake caliper(s) is sticking. It means that the brake caliper piston is extended and pressing the brake pads against the rotors. The noise usually happens when the pads get worn off and the metal tabs on the pads is rubbing on the face of the rotor.

Typically, the calipers will stick due to a brake hose that collapsed on the inside and not allowing brake fluid to go back through the hose. This keeps pressure on the caliper piston as it stays extended.

This does generate quite a bit of heat due to excessive friction. If this goes on long enough the caliper gets damaged as well as the rotor. Which will require replacement of all those components.

Here are couple of helpful articles:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/brake-caliper-replacement
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-front-brake-pads-and-rotors-fwd

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.
Nov 2, 2021 at 6:08 PM
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