Grinding coming from front wheel(s) once brakes are warm, changes when turning and braking

1995 SUBARU LEGACY
200,000 MILES • 2.2L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
BENJAMINTHERERRIBLE
  • MEMBER
  • 58 POSTS
It sounds as if there is another piece of metal between my rotor and my brake pad. Both of which are brand new. Almost as if the caliper itself is grinding on the rotor.
Possible/probable causes? Caliper? Loose wheel hub nut? CV? Tie rod?
Everywhere I've looked says the rotor..
Apr 22, 2020 at 11:08 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Good morning,

If it were a caliper, it would do it all the time. It would not do it just when it gets warm.

As far as the noise, check the backing plate behind the rotor and see if it is bent and too close to the rotor giving you this noise. It is not uncommon for this plate to get out of shape during a replacement of pads and rotors.

The other possibility is the pads themselves. What brand did you use for the replacement? Some of the metallic pads make noise when they get hot as the metal rises to the surface and it sounds like metal on metal when braking.

Roy
Image (Click to enlarge)
Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.
Apr 23, 2020 at 3:34 AM
Avatar
BENJAMINTHERERRIBLE
  • MEMBER
  • 58 POSTS
They're Duralast ceramic brake pads. I did look behind the rotor, the plate doesn't appear to contact it.
But, I did notice that once i had it all put sick together and on the ground, I could reach through and feel the rotor's outer rim (parallel to the wheel) is smooth, i.e. grinded down.
Apr 23, 2020 at 8:23 AM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I would try another set of pads. The material in the pads may be making the noise when they heat up.



Roy
Apr 23, 2020 at 8:47 AM
Avatar
BENJAMINTHERERRIBLE
  • MEMBER
  • 58 POSTS
Even though the noise changes when I'm turning?
Apr 23, 2020 at 10:55 AM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
There is so little clearance between the pad and the rotor, the pad could still be touching while turning.

Have them checked and also look for any black marks on the rotor indicating heat marks.

Roy
Apr 23, 2020 at 11:01 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.