noise when braking (pads???)

[javi]

Started noticing a grinding noise when i apply hard pressure to the brakes on a 1.4S. It sounds like it is coming from the rear driver side. The noise only occurs when applying hard and coming to a stop, when applying light to medium pressure the car sounds fine. Does this sound like the brake pads need replaced or is there another explanation for this? i intend having a look tonight to check the thickness... will it be glaringly obvious that they need replaced or is there anything in specific i should look for?

Thanks for any help

also the car is only 13 months old and has done 15k

[Ben]

sorry to be blunt - but - don't drive so you have to brake heavily, you will find your tyres, brakes, fuel and life lasts longer.

[javi]

sorry to be blunt - but - don't drive so you have to brake heavily, you will find your tyres, brakes, fuel and life lasts longer.

i dont normaly!

I was "city driving" on Saturday and T/Lights changed therefore i braked heavy and heard this noise, perhaps its supposed to.... dont want to go to a garage and make a fool of myself hence i thught id make a fool of myself here instead.

[Ben]

ah well now all is explained, a apologise.

i too have made a fool of myself on here - lesson learned - don't post a picture of yourself wearing slippers.

any way, maybe the noise was caused by the barkes actually being used more than they would normally. I usually have the stereo up on my golf thus drown out any squeaks and rattles that may or may not be there.

[javi]

I usually have the stereo up on my golf thus drown out any squeaks and rattles that may or may not be there.

Yeah, I think i'll resort to that "fix" in future

[adstalker]

Started noticing a grinding noise when i apply hard pressure to the brakes on a 1.4S. It sounds like it is coming from the rear driver side. The noise only occurs when applying hard and coming to a stop, when applying light to medium pressure the car sounds fine. Does this sound like the brake pads need replaced or is there another explanation for this? i intend having a look tonight to check the thickness... will it be glaringly obvious that they need replaced or is there anything in specific i should look for?

Thanks for any help

also the car is only 13 months old and has done 15k

Does it have rear disks or drums?

[javi]

Does it have rear disks or drums?

disks i believe

[adstalker]

Remove the wheel and have a look at what is let on the pad. I should be quite obvious if they need replacing. If still unsure, post a pic of them. I am sure someone will be be able to give you advice.

[gtr mart]

grinding is normally a sign of pad wear. Could be crap / debris on the pads but I would expect this to clear and should make the same noise be it hard or soft breaking.

Your local quick fit would probably have a look.