What Could Be Causing This Metal on Metal Sound When Driving?

Ownership and Maintenance
1

I’ve recently noticed a strange metal-on-metal sound coming from my car while driving, and it has me pretty worried. Here are some details:

Symptoms

  • The noise is most noticeable when I start moving after being stopped.
  • It seems to happen when I apply the brakes, especially at lower speeds.

Possible Causes

I’ve done some reading, and it seems like there could be several reasons for this sound:

  • Worn Brake Pads: They might be too thin and are causing the backing plate to touch the rotor.
  • Dust Shields: Sometimes, these can get bent or rusted and rub against other components.
  • Debris: This is probably the simplest thing – dirt or gravel could be lodged somewhere in the braking system or under the car.
  • Suspension Issues: If I’m feeling any weird vibrations alongside the noise, it could be tied to a suspension component.

Questions

  • Has anyone else experienced this type of noise?
  • What steps did you take to diagnose and fix it?
  • Is there an easy way to check these components without a lift?

Conclusion

I’d appreciate any thoughts on this. I’m really hoping it’s nothing serious but want to make sure I address it before it becomes a bigger issue. Looking forward to hearing your insights!

2

I’ve been hearing a metal on metal sound for weeks, and it turned out to be worn brake pads. It was a pretty easy fix, but definitely alarming at first!

3

That sounds stressful! Have you checked your suspension? Worn bushings can also create similar noises.

6 Likes
4

I had a similar issue with my last car. It ended up being loose heat shield brackets that rattled against the exhaust. Makes you think it’s serious when it’s actually minor.

4 Likes
5

If you suspect it might be suspension-related, don’t ignore it! I ignored mine for too long, and it led to a bigger repair bill. Always check the struts and sway bar links.

6

I have a theory: could it be loose exhaust parts? My buddy had a similar sound, and it turned out to be a broken exhaust hanger. Just throwing that out there!

7

That’s interesting! I wouldn’t have thought of that. How did he diagnose that?

7 Likes
8

Agreed! Prevention is key. I just had to replace my control arms after delaying too long. Not fun!

9

I heard a funny noise and thought it was the car, but it turned out to be my lunch rolling around! Haha! But for real, listen closely before you panic.

10

Haha, that’s a good one! Always check your snacks first before diving into repairs.

11

I wonder if alignment issues could be a cause too? I sometimes hear it when hitting bumps, but haven’t had a chance to take it to a shop yet.

12

Definitely could be! Misalignment can cause some weird noises. Have you checked your tire wear yet?

13

This is such a helpful discussion. I always feel lost when I hear strange noises. Thank you all for the tips!

7 Likes
14

I know that feeling! Just take your time diagnosing it, and you’ll save a lot of headache later on.

15

I’ve been hearing a weird metal on metal sound too, especially when making turns. It could indicate brake wear or issues with the suspension. Ignoring it might lead to lower performance and even safety hazards!

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16

That sounds serious! Prolonged noises can lead to much bigger repairs. It’s vital to get it checked to avoid more extensive damage to your vehicle.

17

Is the sound more pronounced when you’re accelerating? That might signal a transmission issue. Both performance and safety can be greatly compromised if not addressed.

18

Definitely investigate it ASAP! A little sound now can turn into a very expensive problem later. It’s not just about performance but your safety on the road.

1 Like
19

Absolutely! Neglecting this issue can lead to worn out parts, which might pose some serious risks while driving.

20

I’ve had a similar issue and it turned out to be the brake pads. The grinding sound was a clear warning. Don’t let it slide!

8 Likes