What Causes the Squeaking Sound When Slowly Releasing the Brakes?
3 Answers
Brake squeaking when slowly releasing the brakes can be caused by the following reasons: 1. Friction between the brake pads and the disc or drum; presence of foreign objects between the brake drum or disc and the pads; poor quality of the brake pads, such as high metal content, inferior quality, or excessive foreign matter. 2. Irregularities or abnormalities in the flatness or curvature of the brake disc or drum due to prolonged use, leading to abnormal contact friction with the pads; malfunction of the brake caliper. 3. When the brake pedal is slowly released, and the power and braking force are at a critical point, friction between the brake pads and the disc may produce noise. However, if the brake pedal is released quickly, no sound occurs, which is a normal phenomenon.
I encountered this issue the other day—there was a squeaking noise when gently releasing the brakes, which was quite annoying. I asked a mechanic, and he said the most common causes are worn-out brake pads or sand trapped between the layers, especially after rain or in dusty conditions. Additionally, if the brake discs are uneven or rusty, they can also produce noise when braking. I tried removing the tire myself to clean the brake pads and calipers, then applied some specialized brake grease, and now it’s much better. Regular maintenance is crucial—I make it a habit to check the brake pad thickness every six months and replace them if they’re too thin, avoiding waiting until they start squeaking. Loose suspension or steering linkage might also indirectly cause noise, so it’s worth checking those as well. Safe driving is no joke—fixing problems as soon as they’re noticed is the most reliable approach.
Having driven for nearly thirty years, I've encountered the issue of squeaking noises when slowly releasing the brakes quite a few times. In most cases, it's due to the brake pads wearing down to their limit or foreign objects getting stuck, causing a metallic squeal when the metal pieces rub against each other. It could also be that the guide pins lack lubrication and get stuck, preventing the brakes from returning to their original position. In cold and damp weather, brake discs are prone to rust, making the noise particularly noticeable when starting off. A simple solution is to clean the brake system yourself to ensure the discs and pads are clean; in severe cases, new parts may need to be replaced or professional adjustment sought. I've always maintained a habit of regular maintenance, including lubricating relevant connection points, which helps prevent many minor issues. Remember, the brake system is a matter of life and death—don't skimp on small expenses. Getting it checked at a reputable shop is the most worry-free approach.
