What are the solutions for brake squealing in cold weather?
2 Answers
The solutions for brake squealing in cold weather are: 1. Remove and regrind the brake pads; 2. Replace the brake pads or discs in time; 3. Apply grease or special lubricant at the connection between the brake pads and calipers; 4. Clean the brake guide pins, sand them with sandpaper, and apply new lubricant. The reasons for brake squealing in cold weather are: 1. When the brake discs rub, they produce some metal dust, which causes noise when braking—this is a normal noise phenomenon for brake pads; 2. Squealing indicates that the brake pads have reached their wear limit, causing the brake wear indicator to rub against the disc, producing a metal-on-metal sound.
I think the screeching noise when braking in cold weather is mainly due to issues with the brake pads or discs. Low winter temperatures cause the materials to contract and harden, increasing friction and leading to the screeching sound. First, check if the brake pads are excessively worn or have surface rust, as this can cause uneven contact. I recommend running your fingers along the edge of the disc to see if there are noticeable ridges; if so, it means the pads need replacing. Additionally, cleaning the discs and guide pins can help reduce noise—either visit a car wash or use a brush to remove rust and dust yourself. If the noise persists, it's best to switch to a set of winter-specific brake pads, which are designed with materials that don’t deform in low temperatures and operate more quietly. Don’t ignore this issue, as the noise could indicate reduced braking efficiency, increasing the risk of accidents on icy or snowy roads. Remember to schedule a maintenance check before winter to prevent problems—prevention is always better than repairs after the fact.
