Brakes groaning in heavy traffic

HEYMAN764

MEMBER
1973 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE
5.7L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
36,567 MILES

Hello, so today I got caught in very heavy severe traffic. Car ran great but after an hour, every time I hit the brakes they started making a grinding/groaning sound that could be felt through the pedal. Once I got out of traffic, the sound went away and the brakes went back to normal, it only did it when the brakes were applied, sound went away when I released the brakes. The car has factory power brakes, disc in front, drums in rear, sound was coming from front. What could have caused this?
Thanks

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,896 POSTS

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

Often times the pads themselves will make a strange noise under extreme heat. I would recommend checking the front pads to make sure there is not an issue, but chances are it was due to heat.

Here is a link which shows how brake pads are replaced. You can use the directions for inspecting the ones on the vehicle.

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

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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Friday, August 24th, 2018 AT 6:50 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,397 POSTS

It sounds like the front pads are metal to metal. Here is a guide to help you get the pads and rotors replaced:
"
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-front-brake-pads-and-rotors-fwd

Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.

Cheers, Ken

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Friday, August 24th, 2018 AT 6:51 PM

HEYMAN764

MEMBER
24 POSTS

The brake pads have about 75% life left in them. I took a good look at both sides and did not see anything out of the ordinary. I went for a good drive and the brakes did not make any noise and were smooth as can be. I am going to go ahead and say they probably just got hot from the stop and go.
Thanks

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Saturday, August 25th, 2018 AT 5:52 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,397 POSTS

I could be can I ask what kinds of pads? I would use a semi metallic they work the best for noise issues. Use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help. Please tell a friend.

Cheers, Ken

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Saturday, August 25th, 2018 AT 1:12 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,896 POSTS

Ken is exactly right with the type of pads. Also, often times you can get a brake squeal if the rotors and pads are glazed. Let us know if you have other questions.

Have a good weekend.
Joe