What Causes the Squealing Noise in the Electronic Parking Brake?
3 Answers
Electronic parking brake squealing noise may be caused by severely worn brake pads that have reached the position of the warning shim. Friction between the warning shim and the brake disc can produce a squealing sound. Another possibility is that new brake pads or discs have just been replaced. There is a break-in period after replacement, during which squealing may occur. Brake discs generally require replacement only after prolonged use, while brake pads are replaced more frequently. After installing new brake pads, they need time to adapt to the brake discs, so some noise during braking is normal. The noise will disappear after a period of driving and break-in. The electronic parking brake is a technology that achieves parking braking through electronic control. Its working principle is the same as that of a mechanical handbrake, both relying on the friction generated between the brake disc and brake pads to control parking braking. The only difference is that the control method has changed from a mechanical handbrake lever to an electronic button.
I've been driving for 20 years. The screeching noise from the electronic parking brake is most likely caused by severely worn brake pads or internal caliper rust. While electronic system issues like control module failures may also trigger a buzzing sound, screeching usually indicates mechanical friction problems. Last year, my old car had a similar issue, and after inspection, it turned out to be a stone stuck in the brake pad, which also damaged the axle. It cost me over 500 yuan to fix. I suggest you don't ignore these noises—regularly lubricating the brake components can extend their lifespan. Have a professional repair shop use a diagnostic tool to check the electronic unit to avoid prolonged damage that could burn out more parts. Overall, such noises can affect braking response time. Safety comes first, so address it promptly.
As a female car owner who usually only focuses on commuting, I encountered the issue of the electronic parking brake screeching, which made me feel quite uneasy. That piercing noise usually comes from internal dust accumulation or corrosion in humid environments, causing the brake pads to slide poorly; if driving on mountain roads or in rainy weather, the motor might be stuck and not fully reset, which can cause the auto-hold function to fail. A while ago, my car made this noise after being parked in the rain for a few days, so I immediately went to the 4S shop for inspection, avoiding higher repair costs. Usually, it's important to clean the ventilation outlets near the windshield and not let debris block them; take my advice, once you hear the noise, stop using it and pull over to check—it’s much safer.
