Car makes grinding sound when I SLAM on the brakes?

Question

If I brake normally, theres no problems. If I SLAM on the brakes like trying to avoid a close call, car makes grinding sound and I feel it.

I just bought a pre-owned car and a couple of weeks after i bought it, i noticed it made this sound. Never really worried about it until recently. It ONLY happens when i slam on the brakes.

Is this damaging to the rotors?!

Answer 1

Ok first this could me a bunch of things. First ask yourself does the pedal chatter also. This means your ABS is kicking in. Thats normal. Now if this happens on a daily basis this could be your pads or rotars

Answer 2

Yes you are damaging the rotors.  Part of your brake pad (at least one) has worn down to the backing plate.  Get the brakes serviced ASAP - the longer you go the more it will cost.

Answer 3

grinding sound if from one of two sources.....

1. metal to metal contact (new pads, and most likely, new rotors)

2. soft compound on brake pads due to moisture..... (new pads only)  should cost no more that 80 - 90 bucks.

Answer 4

some of these days when your slamming on the brakes, your going to blow a wheel cylinder or the master cylinder seal. its probably the brake pads are worn down.

Answer 5

most likely it needs brakes.  although it could be a bearing or other, but highly unlikely.

Answer 6

Your brake pads are wearing out. You will start to notice it every time you touch the brakes. It might be harming your rotors and it will be much less expensive just to replace the brakes. If i were you i would have a mechanic look it over as soon as possible and fix the problem,i have had my share of bad luck with used vehicles most of it because i let small problems get really bad before getting it fixed. So just have it looked at and don't let the problem go until it becomes major.

Answer 7

Sounds like the brake pads are a bit thin.  You will begin noticing more and more.  I recommend you get them replaced now.

Answer 8

Have a shop check your brakes to be sure but I suspect your hearing the Anti-lock braking system at work...