What Causes the Squealing Noise from Car Brake Pads?
3 Answers
The reasons for the squealing noise from car brake pads: 1. The brake pad shim lacks lubricant, or it might not have been installed properly. This is an installation issue and can be resolved by reinstalling it. 2. The brake pad is misaligned. If upon removal, you notice that only part of the brake pad surface shows signs of friction, this is likely the cause. Again, this is an installation issue and can be fixed by reinstalling. 3. Issues with the product itself, such as inconsistent size of the brake pad friction blocks, large metal particles on the brake pad surface, or the surface oxide film not being worn off. Additionally, the brake pad material may be too hard or of poor quality. It is recommended to first check if the size is appropriate. If the size is correct, try removing and regrinding the pads. If the problem persists, replacement may be necessary.
When my car's brake pads started squeaking, it was annoying from the get-go, probably because the pads had worn down to the limit, and the metal backing plate was scraping against the brake disc, which usually means it's time for new pads. It could also be that dust or small stones got into the brake system, stuck between the pads and the disc, causing friction—more common after driving in the rain or on muddy roads. Every time I hear that sound, I immediately check if the tires and brake discs are even. If they're warped, they need fixing too. Safety first—brake failure is no joke, so I check the thickness of the brake pads myself every six months. If they're too thin, I replace them to avoid trouble, and I always go for OEM parts for better quality.
I've encountered squeaky brakes since I was young, mostly due to brake pad material issues. Those low-metallic pads tend to screech when rubbing against the rotor, especially noticeable during summer heat. Rainy days can cause rusting, making the noise even more piercing. I've seen buddies clean brake dust themselves - just use an air gun to blow away debris. If there are scratches on the rotor, they need to be sanded smooth. Remember not to cheap out on inferior pads; they wear quickly and damage rotors. When washing your car, pay extra attention to prevent water accumulation and rust buildup on the wheel hub inner walls to extend brake life. During routine maintenance, have mechanics check wear levels - it's a simple and safe procedure.
