On 2006 Hyundai Azera Limited, why are there so many different noises when applying brakes?

Question

I've had this car for not quite 2 months and I hear all sorts of noises when I apply the brakes. Today, it was a loud whistle when I was backing out of the garage. Other times it's a grating metalic noise. The dealership has replaced the rotors and struts, then told me the car was safe, they never hear the noises I do. They tell me that I just needed to drive it and let the car get seated. Am I being fed a line?

Answer 1

Sounds more like a problem with the brake pads, were they replaced when the rotors/struts were replaced? Brake pads can definitely make the sounds you discribe, though I can't imagine why your's would have worn so fast. I also have a 2006 Azera that now has 11,000 miles on it, but not a single problem so far. As long as your brakes are working the car is safe, but still they should be able to fix the noise issue, pads are less then $100 for high quality pads. You might want to call an independent brake shop and see if they can do warranty work or at least do a check for you.
After replacing brake pads you are supposed to do no heavy braking the 1st 100 miles to allow the pads to set, if you didn't do that your pads likely are glazed and need replacing again.

Answer 2

Yeah , i'd say the brake pads themselves. The whistle / screeching sound believe it or not , is actually designed to do THAT to let you know it's pad change time. There is a little metal finger on the pad that comes in contact with the rotor when worn down enough, but not worn all the way , it makes the scratch and screech sound letting you know it's time to have them looked at. A grating metallic noise is not good. THAT usually means the pads are so worn that the rivets that anchor the pad material is exposed , and the rivets are what is grinding against the rotor , too much of THAT and you can gouge youre rotors , and will need to have them resurfaced. The good news is that pads and rotors aren't all that complicated , or expensive - depending on your purchase options. I'm no mechanic , and i do all my own pad replacement , and have done a few rotors....