Mitsubishi Repair: 2000 Mitsubishi Galant, mitsubishi galant, pad material

Question
Hello, I own a 2000 Mitsubishi Galant.  Recently, my car began making a screeching/scratching noise (similar to when you brake and your breaks are bad) whenever I would be driving it and would stop as soon as my wheels stopped moving (having me believe it was a problem with the wheels somehow and not the brakes since the noise actually stopped when I braked).  My check engine light also came on recently as well (though I don't think this is related to the previous noise).  Do you know what the noise could be from?  Thanks.

Answer
Joe,
You should have the brakes inspected.  Even though you hear the noise while driving and stops when the wheels stop, the noise you described does sound like excessively worn brake pads.  Most brake pads have wear-indicators that scrape across the rotor when the pad material is significantly worn.  The noise is usually louder at higher speeds.  Have the brake pads inspected and replaced if overly worn.  You may even need to have the rotors replaced or machined if those are showing excessive wear as well.
Good luck!