What Causes the Squeaking Sound When Braking at Startup?

[AnnaAnn]

The reasons for the squeaking sound when braking at startup are: 1. Rust on the brake discs or brake pads. This usually occurs after driving in the rain or leaving the car parked for an extended period, causing severe rust that sticks the brake discs and pads together; 2. Braking when starting a cold car. In lower temperatures, the rubber components in the suspension become stiff, leading to changes in the surfaces of the brake discs and pads, which can also produce abnormal noises; 3. Excessive wear of the brake discs and brake pads. Both components experience friction during each braking action, making them high-wear items. Solutions: 1. Apply butter or specialized lubricating oil to the connection between the brake pads and brake calipers; 2. Warm up the car before starting; 3. Regularly inspect and replace the components.

[DakotaLee]

I've been driving for nearly twenty years and have encountered the issue of squeaky brakes when starting off several times. At first, I thought it was just a minor problem that didn't affect driving, but later I realized that this sound often indicates an issue with the braking system. The most common cause is severely worn brake pads, where the metal backing plate grinds against the brake disc, producing a screeching sound. Especially on rainy days or in humid regions, brake discs are prone to rust, causing friction and noise. Another possibility is dust or small stones getting stuck between the brake pads, resulting in a squeak every time you brake after starting. New brake pads often have a break-in period of a few days where some noise is normal, but if the sound persists, it suggests improper installation or a defect. A friend of mine once ignored such unusual noises and nearly rear-ended another car on the highway due to significantly extended braking distances. I make it a habit to have the brake thickness and cleanliness checked during my bi-annual maintenance and also recommend carrying a small flashlight for regular self-inspections. Safe driving is no small matter—if you hear unusual noises, take immediate action to avoid risks.

[Lane]

There are many potential causes for squeaky brakes that need to be checked. Excessive wear of brake pads is the main reason, as metal-on-metal contact between the pad backing and rotor creates harsh noises. Foreign objects like dust or small stones trapped between components can also cause squealing when rubbing. Environmental factors such as moisture can lead to rust on rotor surfaces, increasing friction resistance. New brake pads typically require a break-in period of several hundred kilometers - the noise should diminish, but persistent sounds indicate unresolved issues. I once encountered a similar situation and discovered uneven rotor wear with grooves only after inspection. Professional advice recommends regular visual thickness checks - replacement is due if below 2mm. Never delay brake system maintenance as it concerns safety; have it inspected immediately upon hearing abnormal sounds. Routine maintenance with compressed air cleaning helps prevent dust accumulation, reduces noise sources, and ensures driving safety.

[SanJulianna]

When I first started driving, I also encountered scary squeaking sounds during starts and braking. Later, I learned the reasons could be that the brake pads were too thin, causing metal friction noises. Or debris on the road might have gotten stuck, grinding and squeaking. Rust on the rotors during high humidity is also common. Newly installed pads may initially make noise, but this is normal during the break-in period and should quiet down. If the noise persists long-term, it indicates potential issues like damaged rotor surfaces or poor-quality components. I suggest beginners not ignore these sounds and have them checked promptly. You can use your car's lights to inspect the brake area for a simple assessment of whether professional help is needed, ensuring timely repairs and safe driving.

[DelHayden]

Over thirty years of driving experience tells me that squeaking sounds during starting or braking are mostly due to worn brake pads needing replacement. Additionally, dust, foreign objects, or moisture-induced rust can easily cause such abnormal noises. New components might have brief break-in noises, but persistent sounds indicate potential defects. Once, while driving on a mountain road with constant squeaking, I later discovered severe scoring on the disc surface, requiring urgent repair to avoid disaster. Maintenance key points include frequent inspections, avoiding parking in waterlogged areas, keeping brakes clean, and ensuring proper thickness. Smooth driving habits, avoiding sudden stops, can extend lifespan and reduce issues. Safety comes first—address any abnormal sounds promptly.