What Causes the Squeaking Noise in Volvo Brakes?
4 Answers
When braking, the squeaking noise may be caused by an incorrect contact angle between the brake pads and the brake disc, or small stones stuck between the brake pads and the brake disc. If this occurs, it is recommended to visit a 4S shop or a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection of the brake system by a specialist. The reasons for squeaking noise when not braking are as follows: 1. Use of low-quality or overly hard brake pads: If inferior or overly hard brake pads are used, they may produce a squeaking sound when rubbing against the brake disc during braking. Therefore, it is essential to use high-quality brake pads when replacing them. 2. Presence of sand or foreign objects between the brake pads and the brake disc: During normal driving, it is inevitable to encounter complex road conditions. Due to the unique design of disc brakes, some sand or foreign objects may get lodged between the brake pads and the brake disc, leading to squeaking noises during braking.
I've been driving a Volvo for a while and noticed that brake noise is quite common. It might be due to small stones or dust accumulation on the brake pads. After driving a few hundred kilometers, those tiny particles rubbing against the rotor can cause squeaking. Sometimes, it's because the brake pad material is relatively hard—some of Volvo's original parts tend to make noise in low temperatures, especially during cold winter mornings. If not cleaned in time, it can accelerate wear and lead to poorer braking performance. I usually recommend washing the car more often, paying extra attention to wheel hub cleanliness to prevent dirt buildup. Also, if it's a new car that hasn't been properly broken in, this can happen too—it usually improves after driving 1,000–2,000 kilometers. In short, don't ignore unusual noises; they might indicate bigger issues, like uneven rotors or improper installation. Getting it checked by a mechanic early can save a lot of hassle.
Brake noise in Volvo cars often stems from minor issues in the braking system. For instance, worn brake pads with hard spots or cracks on the surface can generate noise when pressed. Uneven brake discs, such as those with excessive scoring, may also produce friction sounds. After rain, moisture on the wheels can temporarily cause noise when braking as the water evaporates. Having encountered these situations, I found the simplest solution is to check if the brake pads are worn beyond half their thickness—if so, they need replacement. Some Volvo models may come with factory-installed pads that are designed to be harder; switching to softer aftermarket pads can significantly reduce noise. Additionally, don’t overlook loose mounting bolts, which can rattle and cause noise—tightening them during routine maintenance usually solves the issue. Delaying repairs not only creates annoyance but may also affect braking distance. Safety comes first, so it’s best not to skip a professional inspection at a service center.
Volvo brake noise can be quite annoying, with several common causes: brake pads worn out, making squeaking sounds when thin; dirty or rusted rotors, especially noticeable in humid weather; or new pads not properly broken in, which may squeak for the first few hundred kilometers. If the issue occurs after washing the car or in rainy conditions, the noise usually disappears once everything dries. It's advisable to visually inspect the wheels first—replace the pads if they're too thin, and clean the rotors if they're dirty. From a safety perspective, these conditions can easily reduce braking effectiveness, so don't take them lightly.
