What Causes the Squeaking Sound from Brake Pads When Not Braking?
4 Answers
The reasons for the squeaking sound from brake pads when not braking are: 1. Front and rear brake pads have worn to their limit; 2. The brake disc has worn to its limit; 3. Foreign objects have entered between the brake disc and brake pads; 4. Poor retraction of the brake caliper; 5. Deformation of the brake caliper bracket; 6. Poor retraction of the handbrake cable. The maintenance methods for brake pads are: 1. Regularly check the thickness of the brake pads; 2. Regularly inspect the wear level of the brake shoes and replace them when they reach the limit; 3. Use special tools to retract the brake caliper when replacing the brake shoes; 4. After replacement, press the brake pedal several times to eliminate the gap between the brake shoes and the brake disc; 5. Replace the brake pads with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
The brake pads make a slight hissing sound when not braking, which I've encountered several times while driving. Common causes include slightly loose brake pads or uneven wear causing them to lightly touch the brake disc. Metal contraction friction in low temperatures makes the sound louder. Dirt like dust stuck between the pads and disc can cause squeaking when the car moves. Sticky caliper pistons preventing the pads from separating are more common in older models. It's advisable not to delay repairs, as severe wear can damage the brake discs, making repairs more costly. Remember to maintain regular servicing, inspect the brake system, clean debris, and apply special lubricant to reduce friction. Driving safety comes first—visit a professional shop if any abnormalities occur.
I've handled this issue many times. When there's a hissing sound without pressing the brake, it's mainly due to residual contact between the brake pads and rotors. This could be caused by stuck piston retraction mechanisms preventing complete separation. Temperature changes cause differential metal expansion, increasing friction. Impurities or hard spots on the pads create scraping noises during operation. I recommend first checking if the caliper guide pins are properly lubricated, and cleaning or replacing brake pads if necessary. Prolonged neglect will increase noise, extend braking distance, and raise safety risks. Prevention is better than repair - monitor brake condition during every 5,000 km maintenance.
When driving, the brakes make a hissing sound even when not pressed. Based on my experience, this is often due to component issues. Worn brake pads with uneven edges or small pits on the disc surface can cause friction noise. Rusted calipers with restricted movement may retract slowly. This is especially noticeable in warm and humid weather, often caused by insufficient lubrication in the braking system. Addressing it early reduces costs, while delayed repairs may require disc grinding or part replacement. Safe driving relies on careful maintenance.
