What Causes the Squeaking Sound in Small Cars?
3 Answers
Squeaking sounds in small cars are caused by abnormal contact and friction between the brake disc and brake pads. Main causes of squeaking sounds in small cars: Based on previous repair cases, most situations are caused by the following reasons. One possibility is that the brake caliper has poor retraction, causing the brake disc and brake pads to remain in slight contact. Another possibility is the presence of hard spots on the brake pad surface or small particles like sand getting between the brake disc and brake pads. Repair recommendations: It is recommended to visit a specialized repair shop to check if the brake caliper has poor retraction. Alternatively, removing the brake pads and polishing the friction surface usually results in significant improvement.
The car is making squeaking noises, possibly due to a loose or aged belt. I once drove an old car that always squealed during cold starts. Upon inspection, the alternator belt was found to be severely worn and contaminated with oil. The belt wasn't tight enough, causing friction noises at higher RPMs. The sound became louder when turning, signaling it was time for a replacement. If left unfixed, the belt could snap, affecting the air conditioning or water pump. It's advisable to pop the hood and visually check for cracks or looseness in the belt. The issue might also lie with the air conditioning compressor belt, especially during hot weather when the AC is used frequently. During regular maintenance, have a mechanic take a quick look—it's a small expense that can prevent major issues. The noise tends to worsen on rainy or humid days, as aged belt materials react to moisture. Don't ignore minor sounds; they often indicate accelerating wear and tear on components.
A squeaking noise while driving is most likely caused by a brake system malfunction. I often encounter this issue, especially when braking at low speeds - the screeching sound is piercing. The reason is either excessively worn brake pads or metal shavings stuck in them, creating a mouse-like squeal during friction. Rusty brake rotors can also produce this noise, particularly during the first drive after rain. If left unaddressed, braking power decreases and stopping distance lengthens - truly dangerous! Check your brake pad thickness yourself; replace them if there's less than 3mm remaining. If the sound originates near the wheels, it's almost certainly a brake issue. Noise during steering could indicate loose calipers. Don't delay - visit a professional shop immediately, safety comes first. Driving a few rounds after car washes to dry the rotors can help prevent this. These noises aren't just annoying; they're warnings of system aging that demand serious attention.
