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Grinding Noise When Braking at Low Speed

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by rayout, Feb 24, 2013.

  1. rayout

    rayout New Member

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    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
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    Bought my Prius (2005, with 160K miles) about a month ago and since I've had it I am hearing a metal on metal grinding noise when braking at low speed. How loud the sound is depends on how hard I am on pushing on the brakes. One of my co-workers has the same model and said that his does not make that sound. Not sure if its just because it has after-market brake pads or something? This noise only occurs when braking at low speeds (below 10 MPH) so I assume its an issue with the front brakes.

    Is this something I need to get looked at by the dealership? I had a local mechanic that worked on my old Honda beater take a look and he said that the rotors and brake pads looked new and wasn't sure why they'd make noise.
     
    #1 rayout, Feb 24, 2013
  2. Doc Willie

    Doc Willie Shuttlecraft Commander

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    Dirty rotors are the first suspect. Next time out, as you are descending a hill, put the car in Neutral and use your brakes to slow or stop. That may do it. If it does, repeat this exercise once a month.
     
    #2 Doc Willie, Feb 24, 2013
    bisco likes this.
  3. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    rust, the silent killer.:cool:
     
    #3 bisco, Feb 24, 2013
  4. nh7o

    nh7o Off grid since 1980

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    Yes, it's just rust on the discs. The Prius uses the regen braking so effectively that the front brakes don't get polished off often enough, mainly below 8 mph. I have a long downhill driveway. When I start out, by the time I reach the bottom, at less than 8 mph, the brakes are silent.
     
    #4 nh7o, Feb 25, 2013
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