Step by step guide on how to repair automotive grinding noises, this information pertains to most vehicles.
Difficulty Scale: 4 of 10
Step 1 - Grinding brakes are the number one cause for grinding noises, when a brake pad wears down it contacts the rotor creating a grinding noise. If a grinding noise is heard when the brakes are depressed, check the front and rear brake pads.
Step 2 - An
axle bearing is designed
to support the weight of the vehicle while allowing the wheels to rotate. These
bearings are manufactured with high grade steel that resists wear under extreme
conditions. When an axle bearing fails it allows metal to contact metal under pressure
which creates a grinding noise. Once an axle bearing fails it cannot be repaired,
replacement is required.
Step 3 - Standard transmissions offer an alternative
to automatically shifted transmissions. When a
clutch malfunctions, it will not allow the engine to become disengaged from
the transmission, which causes a grinding noise when gear engagement is attempted.
Visit - How to
Replace a Clutch
Step 4 - If a grinding noise is present when the
engine is cranked over, chances are the battery voltage is low, flywheel is damaged
or the
starter motor is not properly aligned. Visit -
How to load
test a battery
Helpful Information Most grinding noises will be generated while driving, if estimating the location
of the grinding sound is difficult, have a helper ride along in a rear seat to give
a new perspective on the origin of the grinding noise. Once a grinding sound has
been detected, action must be prompt to stem further damage. If further assistance is needed, our certified car repair technicians are ready
to answer car repair questions for free.