Brakes sound like a card in bicycle spokes?

LAUREN MASSELLI

MEMBER
2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
75,168 MILES

I had my brake pads replaced in April. Around the end of July, I started to notice something a little funny (like a very small, singular click) when I pressed the brake, but only while turning right. It has increasingly gotten worse and now makes a distinct, rather loud, noise like a card in bicycle spokes every time the brake is pressed. One person told me they thought it was something with my rotor. Another told me it was something like a collapsed caliper. Someone else told me it was a wheel bearing. Can someone please give me a better idea of what is wrong with my car and how much it’s going to cost to fix? Thank you.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

If it only happens when the brake is depressed, first check to see if there is damage to the brake rotor (scratches, grooves, rust).

Next, I would recommend checking the brakes to make sure something hasn't caused them to lock up and wearing the brake pads quickly. There is aluminum hardware on each end of the brake pads. See if one has come out and is hitting. Also, inspect the dust shield behind the brake rotor to make sure it isn't rusted or bent and moving when you turn right and hitting the brake rotor.

I attached two pics below of what I'm referring to so you can identify them.

Also, if it is loud enough for you to record and upload for me to hear, It may help me.

As far as the ideas people gave you, I never heard of a collapsed brake rotor. As far as the rotor, certainly, something could be hitting it such as the items I attached below.

A wheel bearing usually will create a humming sound at all times which can get louder when turning in one direction and quieter when turning the opposite way. However, applying the brakes usually isn't a cause for it to make noise.

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

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Images (Click to make bigger)