Brake noises: which ones can wait
A noise from the brakes is unsettling. Some sounds should be checked soon, others can wait. Three patterns we hear often.
A high squeal is often the wear indicator rubbing. That itself is not a failure, but it means pad thickness is getting low. Plan a look before the next long trip.
A low grinding sound can mean the pad is gone and metal is on metal. Stop driving if you can and call. Pedal feel may already be weaker.
A light knock only at low speed is sometimes not the brakes at all: a stone, or play in a suspension part. Speed and whether it happens when you turn the wheel help us tell them apart.
If you are unsure, do not guess the sound. A short video or audio clip at the visit helps a lot.