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What Causes the Squealing Noise When Braking in the Rain?

5 Answers
LeSara
07/28/25 9:58am

Here are the specific reasons for the squealing noise when braking in the rain: 1. Improper installation of brake pads: When installing new brake pads, if the old brake discs are not resurfaced, it can lead to a poor fit. Improper installation or installing new pads without resurfacing the old discs will cause the new pads to directly rub against the uneven surface of the old discs, ultimately resulting in uneven wear of the new brake pads. 2. Brake system malfunction: There may be inherent defects in the brake system, causing the brake pads to only partially contact the brake discs. This increases the pressure per unit area during braking, leading to abnormal noise. It is recommended to inspect components such as the calipers and guide pins. 3. Presence of foreign objects: Foreign objects can cause a mismatch in the contact surfaces, resulting in abnormal noise.

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DeMaverick
08/11/25 3:54pm

I've been driving for many years, and it's quite common to hear squeaky brakes on rainy days, mostly caused by rust forming on the brake discs after getting wet. When it rains, water reduces the friction coefficient between the brake discs and pads, and iron components are prone to oxidation and rust. When you apply the brakes, the rust gets scraped off, producing that squeaking sound. Additionally, if the brake pads are old or have accumulated dirt, the noise can become more noticeable in damp conditions. This isn’t a major issue—usually, the sound disappears after driving for a while as the rust wears off. However, if the noise persists or is particularly harsh, it's advisable to have the brake pads checked after the rain. If they're too worn, replace them promptly. Parking in dry areas can also help reduce rust formation and ensure safety. In short, occasional noise is fine, but frequent squeaking should be taken seriously.

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MacKarter
09/28/25 4:21am

Once when I drove out in the rain, I suddenly heard a screeching sound when braking, which gave me a fright! Later, a car-savvy friend told me this is a normal phenomenon caused by rainwater rusting the brake discs. On rainy days, moisture enters the braking system, and the rust on the disc surfaces rubs off during friction, creating a squeaky noise. If your car hasn't been driven for a while or there's a lot of standing water on the road, it's more likely to happen. However, sometimes the loud noise is because the brake pads are almost worn out or there's oil residue. In such cases, don't panic—the sound should stop after driving for a while as the rust wears off. If the noise doesn't decrease, promptly check the thickness and cleanliness of the brake pads to avoid affecting braking performance. Drive more steadily in the rain, avoid sudden braking, and maintain the braking system regularly to prevent potential hazards.

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DiAiden
11/11/25 6:16am

Squeaky brakes on rainy days are often caused by wet and rusted brake rotors. Rainwater causes oxidation and peeling on the iron components, resulting in a grating noise when braking—annoying but not dangerous. If the brake pads are old or dirty, the noise can be even worse. I often advise friends to drive for a while until the rust wears off. However, if the noise persists, it's necessary to check whether the brake pads are excessively worn and replace them if needed. Gentle braking in rainy conditions ensures safer driving.

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MatteoDella
01/01/26 8:01am

I know all about squeaky brakes in the rain. Water causes rust to form on the brake discs, and when you hit the brakes, the rust scrapes off making that annoying noise. It could also be worn-out brake pads or oil contamination – the sound gets even worse on damp days. Don’t ignore it! If the noise is constant or braking feels sluggish, your pads are likely worn or dirty and need attention. Usually, driving for a while after rain makes the noise fade. Keep an eye on your brakes with regular checks, and get them inspected every few thousand kilometers – prevention beats costly repairs. Wet roads are slippery, and faulty brakes are a safety hazard. Remember: safety always comes before saving money!

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