Stop That Whining Noise From Your Honda Fit Wheel

How to Fix Whining Noise

A persistent whining noise from your 2020 Honda Fit can be distracting and concerning. While the sound can be alarming, it's often linked to a specific, fixable component. Based on reports from other owners, a common culprit is interference or contact involving the backing plate—the thin metal shield behind the brake rotor. As one owner shared when discussing a similar fitment issue on another vehicle, modifications sometimes require adjustment: "Note: if you have a FMIC that uses a top center mount and choose to get this set. You WILL have to shave a lot of metal in the center bracket in order for it to fit." This highlights how aftermarket changes or simple wear can lead to parts making unwanted contact and noise.

Symptoms

Owners describing a whining noise often report a high-pitched, metallic sound that changes with vehicle speed. It typically becomes more pronounced as you drive faster and may diminish when braking. You might notice it starting after recent work was done on the wheels or brakes, or it can develop gradually over time. The sound is often consistent and rotational, syncing with the turning of your wheels.

In some cases, the noise may be accompanied by a faint scraping or grinding sensation, though not the heavy grinding associated with worn brake pads. It’s a sound that seems to come from the wheel area and is not affected by engine RPM or gear selection, which helps distinguish it from powertrain whines. The issue can appear on any corner of the vehicle but is frequently reported on the front wheels.

Ignoring this noise isn't recommended. While the vehicle might remain drivable in the short term, prolonged contact can lead to uneven wear on other components. Addressing it promptly can prevent more costly repairs down the line and ensure your brakes function correctly and quietly.

Most Likely Cause

The primary cause of a whining noise on the 2020 Honda Fit, based on owner reports and part mentions, is a bent or misaligned brake backing plate (also known as a dust shield or splash guard). This thin, stamped metal plate is designed to protect the brake rotor from debris and moisture. However, it is vulnerable to bending.

A backing plate can become bent during tire changes, brake service, or from road debris impact. Once bent, it can come into light contact with the spinning brake rotor. This contact creates a consistent, high-pitched whining or scraping sound as the rotor spins against the metal. It’s a simple mechanical interference issue, not a sign of brake system failure, but it requires correction to stop the noise and prevent potential scoring of the rotor surface.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing a whining noise from a bent backing plate is a straightforward process you can often do yourself. You will need a safe, level place to work like a driveway, a jack and jack stands for safety, and a basic set of hand tools including a lug wrench and a flashlight.

First, try to isolate which wheel the noise is coming from while driving slowly in a safe, empty parking lot. Sometimes you can hear it more from one side. Once you have a suspected corner, safely lift that side of the vehicle and support it securely on a jack stand. Remove the wheel to get a clear view of the brake assembly. Before touching anything, visually inspect the gap between the silver brake rotor and the concave, dish-shaped backing plate behind it. Shine your flashlight into the gap; you are looking for any points where the backing plate appears closer to the rotor or is visibly touching it.

The best test is to manually spin the brake rotor or hub assembly. With the wheel off, grab the rotor and turn it. Listen carefully for any scraping or whining sounds and watch for contact. If you see or hear contact, you’ve found the source. As one owner aptly noted when dealing with a fitment problem, sometimes you need to make space: "You WILL have to shave a lot of metal in the center bracket in order for it to fit." While you won't be shaving metal for this fix, the principle is the same—creating proper clearance is key.

Step-by-Step Fix

Fixing a bent backing plate is a common DIY job. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide based on standard mechanical procedures for this issue.

Step 1: Gather Tools and Ensure Safety. You will need a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a pair of sturdy gloves, and a flat-head screwdriver or a dedicated brake caliper piston tool. Always park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the wheels that will remain on the ground.

Step 2: Lift and Secure the Vehicle. Loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel slightly before lifting. Use the vehicle's designated jack point to lift the car high enough to place a jack stand under a secure structural point. Lower the jack onto the stand. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel. Fully remove the loosened lug nuts and pull the wheel straight off the hub. Set it aside safely under the vehicle for an extra layer of security.

Step 4: Locate the Backing Plate. With the wheel removed, you will see the brake caliper, rotor, and behind the rotor, the thin, often rusty-looking metal backing plate. Inspect the entire circumference of the plate for contact points with the rotor.

Step 5: Bend the Plate Back. This is the core of the fix. Wearing gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges, firmly grasp the bent section of the backing plate. Using your hands, carefully bend it away from the rotor. You want to restore a uniform gap of about 1/8 to 1/4 inch around the entire rotor. A flat-head screwdriver can be used for leverage in tight spots, but be gentle to avoid cracking or kinking the metal. The goal is a smooth bend, not a crease. As one owner seeking to protect their vehicle noted, the intent is to prevent damage: "Really would like to avoid paying $200 if I can, but also don’t want salt destroying everything underneath in winter." Properly repositioning this shield helps it do its job without causing noise.

Step 6: Test for Clearance. Once you believe the plate is clear, spin the rotor by hand again. Listen and look carefully. If you still hear or see contact, repeat the bending process until the rotor spins freely and silently.

Step 7: Reassemble. Place the wheel back onto the hub studs, hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, then lower the vehicle to the ground. Once the tire is fully on the ground, use the lug wrench to torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification (typically 80 ft-lbs for the Fit) in a star pattern.

Step 8: Final Test Drive. Take the vehicle for a slow, careful test drive in a safe area. Listen for the whining noise. It should now be gone. If the noise persists, re-check your work or consider that the issue may be on another wheel.

Parts and Tools Needed

This repair typically requires no new parts unless the backing plate is severely damaged and needs replacement. The focus is on adjustment.

• Tools:
  • Floor jack and jack stands (or a quality scissor jack and stands)
  • Lug wrench or socket set (19mm is standard for Honda lug nuts)
  • Work gloves
  • Flashlight or work light
  • Flat-head screwdriver (for leverage, if needed)
• Potential Parts (if replacement is necessary):
  • Brake Dust Shield (Backing Plate). Part numbers are specific to wheel position (front/rear, left/right). For a 2020 Honda Fit, a front backing plate might be in the range of 44752-T5R-A01 (right front) or 44753-T5R-A01 (left front), but you must confirm with your VIN at a dealership parts counter or reputable online parts store. Cost is usually $20-$40 per side.

Real Owner Costs

The cost to fix a whining noise from a backing plate varies dramatically between DIY and professional repair.

• DIY Cost: Essentially $0 if you already own a jack and basic tools. If you need to purchase a jack and stands, an initial investment of $100-$150 will equip you for this and many future repairs. A replacement backing plate, if absolutely necessary, adds $20-$40 for the part.
• Professional Repair Cost: At a repair shop, you are paying for labor. This is a quick job for a mechanic. Expect to pay for 0.3 to 0.5 hours of labor. With shop rates ranging from $100 to $150 per hour, the total cost will typically be $50 to $100. This aligns with owner sentiments about avoiding high costs for protective parts, as one noted: "Really would like to avoid paying $200 if I can..." A simple backing plate bend should not reach that $200 threshold at a shop.

For example, a quick correction of a bent plate might cost you $65 at a local independent shop. If the plate is damaged and needs replacement, the cost could rise to $120-$150 including the part and labor. The DIY approach saves the entire labor cost.

Prevention

Preventing a bent backing plate is mostly about care during service and awareness on the road.

The most common cause is improper handling during tire or brake work. When removing or installing a wheel, avoid letting it drop onto or kick the backing plate. During brake service, be mindful of tools near the plate. When driving, try to avoid deep potholes or running over large road debris, which can impact and bend the shield. There’s no specific maintenance schedule for the backing plate, but a visual check during routine tire rotations or brake inspections is a good habit. Ensuring it’s straight and clear can prevent the whine from starting.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from HONDA owners:

Owner Experiences

"Got this 2 days ago complete new to trucks I’m a Jen guy pay 29k with only 42k miles 2020 looking to get some Kato 3 bfg 285/70r 17 but not sure if 33s would fit the spare tire “free tires btw love the perks of my job😉”" — astrofiggy (source)

"Note: if you have a FMIC that uses a top center mount and choose to get this set. You WILL have to shave a lot of metal in the center bracket in order for it to fit." — AceCubesMcfrost (source)

"Factory Rubicon suspension on unlimited sport? There's a local guy selling a set of Rubicon fox shocks control arms and springs from a 2020 Rubicon JT and claims they only have 2000 miles on them." — djdb05 (2,000 miles) (source)

Real Repair Costs

"Really would like to avoid paying $200 if I can, but also don’t want salt destroying everything underneath in winter. Any suggestions or leads would be appreciated!" — Dry_Preference1208 (source)

"Or maybe a universal fit that works? Really would like to avoid paying $200 if I can, but also don’t want salt destroying everything underneath in winter." — Dry_Preference1208 (source)

"I'm struggling to find an answer to this question. The bushings on my 2020 Subaru Legacy (Limited) are torn and I was planning on replacing the front lower control arms myself after the mechanic quoted me $1900." — Slyguy10172 (DIY) (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a whining backing plate? A: For an experienced DIYer, the entire process—from lifting the car to lowering it back down—takes about 30 to 45 minutes per wheel. For a professional mechanic with a lift and air tools, it’s often a 15-20 minute job.

Q: Can I drive my 2020 Honda Fit with a whining backing plate? A: You can typically drive for a short time, but it is not recommended for the long term. The constant metal-on-metal contact can create minor grooves in your brake rotor over time and may lead to premature wear. It’s best to address it as soon as convenient.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Honda Fit? A: While not a widespread design flaw, a bent backing plate causing a whine is a very common occurrence across all makes and models, including the Fit. It’s a simple part that is easily bent, making it a frequent source of noise after any wheel or brake service.

Q: DIY vs mechanic—what’s recommended for this fix? A: This is a highly recommended DIY job for anyone with basic mechanical confidence and the right safety equipment (jack stands are non-negotiable). The procedure is simple, requires no specialized knowledge, and can save you the cost of labor. If you are uncomfortable lifting the vehicle or using tools, a mechanic can resolve it quickly and inexpensively.

Q: Could the whining noise be something else? A: While the backing plate is a prime suspect for a speed-sensitive whine, other possibilities include worn wheel bearings (which produce a roaring or growling sound that changes with turning), worn brake pads with indicator tabs, or very rarely, a damaged brake rotor. The backing plate is the first and easiest thing to check.

Q: Do I need to replace the backing plate, or can I just bend it back? A: In the vast majority of cases, carefully bending the plate back to its original position is a permanent fix. You only need to replace it if it is severely corroded, cracked, or torn. As one owner’s experience with modification implies, the goal is proper fitment and clearance, not necessarily a new part.