Front Brake Noise after replacing pads and rotors?

Tiny
KEVIN CONKLIN
  • MEMBER
  • 2018 MAZDA 3
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 80,000 MILES
Hello,

I replaced my front brake rotors and pads since they were running low on my vehicle listed above. I made sure to lubricate the back of the pads and I'm pretty sure I installed them correctly as they will only really fit in correctly one way.

Ever since the installation though, my brakes now make a rotation-based scratching/scraping noise when lightly engaged. This noise only seems to occur when I'm braking at low speeds (less than 20km/hr), and it only happens when I apply light pressure on the brakes. As soon as I apply full pressure, the noise goes away or if I'm travelling fast there won't be a noise.

What could this be?
Wednesday, August 7th, 2024 AT 6:38 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,323 POSTS
I would make sure the pads have not been installed backwards, (metal backing plate to the brake rotor) I know it sounds weird, but I have seen this problem more than once. Also, make sure the caliper slides have been serviced. Here is a guide to help and I have included how to change the brake pads out correctly in the images below:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/discover-why-automotive-brake-pads-wear-unevenly

Also, check the brake pads retainer clips they need to be installed correctly, and they can be tricky, the instructions show how they are to be installed as well. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

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Thursday, August 8th, 2024 AT 10:45 AM
Tiny
KEVIN CONKLIN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi Ken, thank you for the detailed response, I will have a look this weekend if I can. Out of curiosity though, what book is the source for those images?
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Saturday, August 10th, 2024 AT 5:12 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,323 POSTS
These images are courtesy of AllDATA.
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Saturday, August 10th, 2024 AT 9:42 AM

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