Reader Question Austin,

My wife drives a 2000 Oldsmobile Allero. Recently, it began making a grinding/scratching noise when driving at very slow speeds (slower than 10 mph or so) while both accelerating and decelerating. The noise is almost more noticeable from inside the car than out. She thinks it also occurs while turning right more frequently than while turning left.

Any thoughts? Thanks for your help.

Greg

Howdy Greg,

First thing that comes to mind is it is time for a brake inspection. There is a small thin piece of metal attached to the front brake pads. When the pad material gets low this piece of metal rubs against the brake rotor causing a squealing high pitched noise.

If you step on the brake pedal this pushes the metal strip harder against the brake rotor so the noise usually goes away, the opposite as to what you would think would happen.

I would have your mechanic remove all 4 wheels and inspect the brakes.

Blessings,

Austin Davis

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