Nissan Sentra is an excellent compact vehicle, but it’s not without its fair share of problems. The Nissan Sentra noise when braking is one such issue and is typically a sign something is wrong.

If your Nissan Sentra is making a noise when braking, this is usually a sign of worn brake pads or an issue with the rotors. In some cases, a problem with the brake calipers can also cause the sound.

However tempting it may be, it’s never a good idea to just ignore it and hope that it will go away. In this article, we will discuss the six most common causes and solutions for the Nissan Senta squealing sound.

How Does Nissan Brakes Work?

The Nissan Brakes come with Automatic Emergency Braking that ensures ultimate protection to your vehicle from potential frontal collision.  This technology indeed adds up to the security features of your car.

The Nissan brakes work like any other regular automatic brakes.  When you push on the brake pedal, a lever will work its way and push a piston into the cylinder.  This is the cylinder that contains the hydraulic fluid. 

Moreover, when you press the brake pedal, friction is created by the brake pad and brake disc that causes the outer wheel to stop.  In some vehicle models, the cylinder also reduces the vehicle’s speed when pressed against the brake drum. 

Symptoms of Poor Nissan Sentra Brakes

You can experience various brake problems when your vehicle is in regular use or even when you have parked for weeks or months.  Here are some symptoms that will help you determine if your Nissan Sentra has faulty brakes;

• Fluid leakage
• The brake light comes on
• Brakes make grinding or squeaking sounds when pressed
• A burning smell comes out of the car
• In the case of shortstops, your car bounces

What are the Causes of Nissan Sentra Grinding Noise When Braking?

Grinding brakes has a relatively lower-pitched sound, and you will feel the change when you slow down or stop your car.  In the case of grinding brakes, your steering wheel will also start to shake. 

Below are some reasons why your Nissan Sentra’s brakes are making grinding noises:

1. Damaged Brake Pads

Problem: A primary reason your brakes make a grinding sound can be worn out or damaged brake pads.  It is pretty easy to detect damaged or worn-out brake pads because they come with attached squealers. 

Squealers are little metal pieces that sound when your brake pads start to wear out.  When your brake pads are damaged, these metal pieces will make your brakes squeal whenever you press them down, or sometimes without even pressing them.

Keep in mind that you shouldn’t ignore the squealing sound for a long time as it can cause severe damage to the whole brake system of your vehicle.

Solution: In the case of damaged brake pads, you can get them checked if they can be fixed or not.  The mechanic will tell you if they can be repaired or else you will need to dish out the dough to buy replacement brake pads. 

2. Accumulated Debris or Foreign Object

Problem: One of the most common issues that cause the brakes on your Nissan Sentra to grind is accumulated debris or a foreign object between the rotor and the caliper.  When there is any debris stuck between the two components, it will cause a very severe and annoying grinding sound.

In the case of accumulated debris, you will hear a grinding sound coming out of your brakes every time you press down the pedal. 

So, if you hear a constant grinding sound every time you press on your brake pedal, it is the indication that you clean up the debris or get your vehicle to the mechanic.

Solution: If you have accumulated debris or foreign objects, you will have to remove them or get them removed by an experienced mechanic. 

3. Faulty or Worn Out Rotor

Problem: A worn-out rotor is another cause of grinding noise coming out from your Nissan brakes.  Although this doesn’t happen as often as the other problems mentioned above, it can happen in modern vehicles.

This happens when the rotor becomes too thin and starts to warp.  In modern vehicles, the rotors are too narrow to enhance the unsprung weight to better fuel mileage.

So, if your Nissan Sentra’s rotor is warped, the brake system on your vehicle will start to make a grinding sound. 

Solution: The faulty or worn-out rotor can be fixed or replaced by a new one.  An expert can guide you on the extent of the damage and whether you need a replacement or not. 

4. Inadequate Lubrication

Problem: As you might already know, adequate lubrication is necessary for the sound working of any machinery.  In the case of the vehicle’s brake system, lubrication is required for the caliper, which plays an essential role in the whole system.

The brake caliper bolts are responsible for helping the caliper adjust in case the brake pads get damaged.  If there is inadequate lubrication for the caliper, it will cause it to hang up, which will produce a grinding sound.

Solution: The only solution to inadequate lubrication is to provide the necessary amount of lubrication.  If you have zero experience, you can consult an expert and work accordingly.

5. Poor Replacement Brake Pads

Problem: The damage caused by poor quality replacement brake pads is equal to that caused by failed or damaged places.  The replacement brake pads’ material tends to wear out quickly, so it is essential to prefer quality over any other thing.

Once your brake pads start to wear out, they can damage the rotors of your Nissan Sentra’s braking system.  The material problem of replacement brake pads is the primary cause.  The material is either too uneven or large, which damages the rotors.

So, when choosing the replacement brake pads, choose the right ones so that it doesn’t threaten your braking system. 

Solution: Choose the replacement pads after due diligence. Make sure you buy them from a Nissan-certified dealership/mechanic. 

6. Brakes Overheating

Problem: Another common reason for squeaking brakes is a term referred to as brake glazing, which occurs when the brakes overheat. This can be caused by several factors including driving down steep hills with the brakes pressed down, high outdoor temperatures, or accidentally leaving the handbrake on while you’re driving.

Symptoms: Overheating brakes can be fixed by changing your driving style. Always leave enough space between you and the car in front to avoid unnecessary and harsh braking. You can also try engine braking which is a method of downshifting and stepping off the accelerator. If your brake pads are glazed, you should have them replaced and the rotors will also need to be cleaned or replaced.

Final Thoughts

Brake problems should never be taken lightly as they could result in ultimate brake failure and serious accidents.  So, it is essential to address any related issue immediately for your and your car’s safety.  

Therefore, if you are experiencing Nissan Sentra noise when braking, you must get it checked immediately!

FAQs

What is the most common cause of grinding brakes?

The most common cause of grinding brakes is accumulated debris or a foreign object between the rotor and the caliper.

Can I fix my Nissan Sentra’s brakes myself?

You can fix some of the issues yourself, but it is always better to take your Nissan Sentra to an experienced mechanic.

How often should I replace my brake pads?

You should replace your brake pads every 25,000 miles or as soon as you notice any damage.

What are the consequences of not replacing my brake pads?

The consequences of not replacing your brake pads can be very severe, including damage to the rotor or caliper. It is always better to replace the brake pads as soon as you notice any damage.