What Causes Squeaky Brake Pads?

[StOmar]

The reasons for squeaky brake pads are: 1. The brake pad shims lack lubricant or are improperly installed; 2. Misaligned brake pad installation; 3. Product defects, such as inconsistent friction block dimensions, large metal particles on the surface, unbroken oxidation film, or inferior hard material composition; 4. Initially silent but suddenly noisy after driving - usually caused by small stones trapped in the brake pads. Brake pads (also called brake linings) are critical safety components in a vehicle's braking system, playing a decisive role in overall braking performance.

[MacLilah]

I often encounter high-pitched squealing noises from the brake pads while driving, sometimes feeling like metal grinding, which is quite annoying. This is usually because a lot of dust or debris has accumulated on the brake pads, such as not cleaning them properly after driving on dirt roads; or the brake pads are nearly worn out, causing the metal parts to come into contact with the brake disc. Once, after parking in the rain and starting again, I noticed the noise was louder, possibly due to moisture causing rust. If the sound is slight, it might disappear after driving for a while, but if it persists, it's time to replace the pads. Don’t forget to check the thickness of the brake pads—using them when they're too thin can damage the brake disc, increasing repair costs.

[AveryLee]

As someone who has been driving for several years, I've found that the common cause of screeching brake pads is improper material. Some cheap brake pads are harder, offering good braking performance but prone to noise during friction; in contrast, high-quality pads are made of softer materials, quieter but with slightly inferior performance. Another possible reason is installation issues, such as new pads not being chamfered or bolts being loose. I recommend regularly visually inspecting the brake pads to ensure the surface is smooth and free of cracks. If not replaced in time, it not only affects driving comfort but may also reduce effectiveness during emergency braking. Remember, reasonable driving habits can extend the life of brake pads and reduce the risk of abnormal noises.

[SanAvery]

When brake pads emit a screeching sound, it is often an alarm for potential malfunctions. For instance, metal particles or dust adhering to the brake pads can cause sharp noises when rubbing against the brake disc; or the pad body may be severely worn, leading to the failure of the friction material. I've found that ignoring it can result in degraded braking performance, or even overheating that poses a fire hazard. It's best to immediately visit a professional shop for inspection, using sandpaper to clean off impurities or replacing the brake pads to ensure driving safety.