Ask an expert


levon_mcleod

I've recently replaced all 4 brake pads on the Mrs Mazda hatch. Prior to changing the rear brakes groaned (kind of like Chewbacca talking) when applied in reverse.

After the pad change the rear brakes now make the noise anytime I'm braking lightly but not heavily - any ideas? Rotors looked okish

Anon

Hi there,
A lot of the time it can be because you now have nice flat pads and old discs that may not be very flat and will take a while for the two surfaces to match again. You may also need to take the edges of the pads with a file or file the rusty edge off the discs as this could be catching on the pads and making noise. Like my Ford Focus after it's been sitting for a while- the disc gets an outer layer of rust that takes ages to clean off. You can also lube a the sides of the pads where they sit in the calliper, and lube the calliper sliders with rubber grease, or you may need new discs to be sure all is good. The simple way may also be to drive the vehicle and do a few hard stops or ride the brakes a bit to get some heat in and see if it makes a difference. The noise might go away when the brakes are hot and come back again when they cool.