Why are my Brakes Making a Grinding Noise After This Last Snowstorm?

Salt's Affect on Brakes

Brakes make a grinding noise after snowy weather, usually because road salt and moisture have caused "rotor rust." When your car sits after driving on salted Omaha city roads, a thin layer of corrosion forms on the metal rotors. This rust creates a harsh grinding sound the first few times you apply the brakes as the pads scrape the surface clean. While a little surface rust is normal, deep pitting from salt corrosion can weaken your stopping power. If the grinding persists after a few stops, your brake pads may be worn down to the metal backing plate. This is a serious safety risk that requires immediate professional attention to prevent damage to other parts of your car. Automotive technicians see this every winter. “Road salt is like sandpaper for your rotors; it eats away at the smooth surface and makes your brakes work harder than they should”, says Zach Haver, owner of Mad Hatter Auto Repair, with locations in Omaha, NE and Council Bluffs, IA.

Mad Hatter Auto Repair - the #1 Choice for Brake Repair

If your brakes start making noise once the snow melts, don’t gamble with your safety — get them checked. Bring your vehicle in for our free winter vehicle damage inspection. We also now offer brake repair service packages starting at just $399 to help restore your stopping power in your brake system. Call (402) 330-2286 in Omaha and (712) 322-7500 in Council Bluffs. Get your vehicle in for our trained professionals to take a look!