Continuous Squeaking Noise from Rear Wheels While Driving?
3 Answers
If there is a squeaking noise while the car is moving, the sound may be coming from the suspension. The car's suspension includes links, springs, shock absorbers, and stabilizer bars. Here are the specific details: 1. If the noise increases when lightly pressing the brake, then the issue lies with the braking system. Problems such as excessively thin brake pads, uneven wear between the brake disc and brake pads, or faults in the brake caliper, master cylinder, or wheel cylinder can all cause noise in the braking system, typically manifesting as sharp and continuous sounds. 2. If the engine belt is too loose, it can also result in a squeaking noise. In this case, you can try pinching the drive belt with your fingers and twisting it. The twist angle should generally be less than 90 degrees; otherwise, you will need to adjust the tension.
My car had the same issue last time, with the rear wheels constantly squeaking. It turned out to be a problem with the brake pads. When the brake pads are nearly worn out, the metal backing plate rubs against the brake disc, making a sound like chalk scraping on a blackboard. The noise becomes even more noticeable when it rains or in humid conditions. Another possibility is that the brake disc itself is warped, causing uneven surfaces that create friction and noise. Additionally, if the brake caliper doesn't retract properly, the brake pads may constantly lightly touch the brake disc, which can also cause noise. Of course, it could also be a faulty wheel hub bearing—lack of lubrication or excessive wear in the bearing can produce a humming sound mixed with some squeaking while driving. The easiest solution is to take it to a repair shop, lift the car, and inspect it—check the thickness of the brake pads and examine the bearings for any play. If you want to handle it yourself, try slamming on the brakes a couple of times; sometimes that can shake loose any debris stuck in the brake pads.
I've encountered the issue of rear wheels squeaking several times, mostly related to the braking system. First, you need to determine if the noise occurs when the wheel is rotating. If the sound changes pitch when turning, it might be a bearing problem. Worn brake pads that are too thin will squeak, especially those with wear indicators – the metal piece contacting the rotor causes the squealing. Rusty brake rotors or debris stuck between pads can also create strange noises. When I dealt with this myself, I first jacked up the rear wheel to rotate the tire and locate the sound source, then removed the hub to inspect brake pad thickness. By the way, a stuck parking brake cable or incomplete release can also cause the pads to partially rub and squeak. In such cases, drive about ten kilometers and feel the wheel hub temperature – if it's unusually hot, it might indicate the brakes aren't fully releasing.
