What Causes the Squealing Noise When Braking a Car?
4 Answers
There are several main reasons for squealing noises when braking a car: 1. New brake pads are in the break-in period. 2. Metal particles appear in the brake pads. 3. Excessive wear of brake discs and brake pads. 4. Deformation of brake discs. Below is an introduction to automotive brake pads: 1. Brake pads, also called brake linings, are the most critical safety components in a car's braking system. They serve as important braking components and crucial elements ensuring driver safety. 2. Brake pads generally consist of steel plates, adhesive heat insulation layers, and friction blocks. The heat insulation layer is made of non-heat-conductive materials designed for thermal insulation. The friction block is composed of friction materials and adhesives, which create friction when pressed against the brake disc or drum during braking, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration and stopping.
A few days ago, I encountered squeaky brakes while driving, which initially made me quite nervous, thinking something serious was wrong. This kind of noise is usually due to worn-out brake pads or surface dirt, dust, and rust, especially after parking all day following rain. It could also be caused by loose components in the braking system, such as improperly tightened caliper bolts. I learned to inspect them and found that if the brake pads are too thin, they should be replaced promptly, as prolonged braking distances can compromise safety. Occasionally, using a high-pressure air gun to blow away dust might help eliminate the noise—a simple trick that sometimes works. If the noise persists, don’t ignore it; head to a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection to avoid potential hazards. Regular maintenance, such as checking brake components every six months, can prevent many issues.
Having driven for over a decade, I've encountered my fair share of common brake noises. These sounds can stem from various situations, such as aging brake pads hardening and producing squeaks, or uneven brake disc surfaces with grooves causing friction. Another factor is moisture evaporation, particularly noticeable during cold starts when the noise is more pronounced. Insufficient brake fluid can also lead to pressure loss and unusual sounds. From my experience, I advise you not to overlook these small signals—regular maintenance is crucial. Checking the brake system every 5,000 kilometers is simple and effective. You can visually inspect the brake discs for smoothness and absence of rust, and a light wipe of the surface often helps. Prioritize safety; don't skimp on these check-up times.
As someone who commutes by car, the sound of brakes can indeed be nerve-wracking. Usually, the reasons are simple, like brake pads being worn out and needing replacement, or foreign objects getting stuck in the brake shoes. It could also be due to rust from moisture in the disc brake system. I recommend doing a quick self-check first, such as feeling the brake disc temperature and cleaning it if it's normal. These minor issues are common for everyone, and timely handling is key; otherwise, the risk of skidding in rainy conditions increases. A professional shop can quickly diagnose the problem—no need to mess around blindly.
