What Are the Reasons for Squeaky Brakes?
3 Answers
The reasons for squeaky brakes are: 1. Rust on the brake discs or brake pads; 2. The brake pads are new; 3. Excessive wear on the brake discs or brake pads; 4. The brake pads are installed incorrectly or are of the wrong model; 5. Use of low-quality or overly hard brake pads; 6. Abnormal brake caliper or lack of brake fluid; 7. Foreign objects between the brake drum or disc and the brake shoes. The solutions for squeaky brakes are: 1. Apply butter or special lubricant at the connection between the brake pads and the brake caliper; 2. Regularly inspect and replace the brake pads; 3. Regularly adjust the brakes; 4. Avoid frequent use of the brakes.
I once experienced the issue of squeaky brakes and found that the most common causes are severely worn brake pads or excessive dust buildup on them. Especially after driving on rainy days, the slight rust on the rotors can also create friction noise. Ignoring it for too long may lead to reduced braking performance or even safety hazards. I recommend getting them checked at a shop promptly—normal brake pads should be at least 3-4 mm thick, and if they’re thinner, replace them immediately. Additionally, some new cars have harder brake pad materials, which may occasionally squeak during the break-in period. This isn’t a major issue but still requires attention. In short, don’t slack off—regular maintenance is key to avoiding trouble.
I'm used to maintaining my car by myself and have found that squeaky brakes often stem from improper installation or foreign objects on the discs. For instance, after replacing the brake pads last time, the noise persisted because the installation was slightly misaligned. I used a brush to clean off the gravel on the disc, and the noise stopped. Another common situation is when the brake pad wear indicator scrapes against the disc—this is a safety warning signal that should never be ignored. I always encourage everyone to learn basic inspection methods: after engaging the handbrake, gently push the wheel. If there's noticeable vibration, it indicates a serious issue, and immediate repair will save time and effort.
