What Causes Squealing Sounds When Braking?

[ChristopherDella]

Reasons for squealing sounds when braking: 1. Worn brake pads are one of the causes of friction noise during braking. If the brake pads have been used for a long time, the backing plate gradually loses its material, causing metal-to-metal contact and producing harsh noises; 2. Friction noise caused by damaged brake shims. Worn shims come into contact with the braking system, and when metal meets metal, it generates sharp sounds from the braking system. Car brake pads, also known as brake linings, refer to the friction materials fixed on the rotating brake drum or brake disc of the wheel. The friction linings and blocks bear external pressure to create friction, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration.

[Harper]

I've been driving for over twenty years, and brake squealing is quite common. It's mainly caused by the brake pads wearing too thin, exposing the hard metal that makes noise when it contacts the rotor. Dirt stuck in the gaps can also cause this—once, after driving on a rural road, gravel got lodged in and caused constant screeching. Always check the thickness of the pads first; you can feel unevenness with your fingers. If confirmed, head to the shop immediately for new pads. Ignoring it can lead to deeper rotor damage, which not only costs more to repair but also increases braking distance, especially dangerous in rainy conditions. My experience tells me regular maintenance is key. A simple monthly check can prevent major issues, saving money and ensuring a safer, worry-free drive.

[LaPeter]

As a car enthusiast, I'm quite familiar with brake noise issues. That high-pitched squeal mostly comes from exposed brake pad indicators or foreign objects getting lodged in, like small stones rubbing against the brake components. Brake discs can also squeak when rusted or uneven, especially after rain or on humid days. For DIY inspection, remove the wheel to check for debris - if the pad thickness is too low, replacement is needed. I always keep compressed air handy to blow out dust, which often solves the noise problem easily. Delaying repairs leads to excessive component wear, damaging rotors and pads while reducing overall system efficiency, significantly increasing safety risks especially at high speeds. Simple maintenance can extend brake life and prevent sudden failures.

[MacColin]

I'm extremely concerned about driving safety, and I never ignore any squealing sounds from the brakes. This could indicate that the brake pads have worn down to the metal layer contacting the rotor, or that dust or foreign objects are causing abnormal friction. Continuing to drive under such conditions will reduce braking efficiency, increasing the risk of skidding, especially in rainy weather. Whenever I notice such sounds, I immediately take the car to a repair shop. The technician can quickly identify the cause, such as loose installation or lack of lubrication. After parking, I often manually check for any unevenness in the components. Neglecting these issues can accelerate part wear, leading to skyrocketing repair costs and compromising travel safety. Developing good maintenance habits is crucial.