Why does the brake squeak when pressed slowly?
3 Answers
The reasons for squeaking when pressing the brake slowly: 1. The brake disc or brake pads are rusted; 2. New cars may produce similar noises when braking; 3. Excessive wear of the brake disc and brake pads. If the brake pads are installed incorrectly or the model does not match, abnormal noises may also occur. Both the brake disc and brake pads are high-wear items. Every time the brake is applied, these two components generate friction, which naturally leads to wear over time. When the wear becomes excessive, abnormal noises will naturally occur, so regular inspection and replacement are necessary. Typically, brake pads should be replaced every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers, while the brake disc should be replaced every 100,000 to 120,000 kilometers.
As an experienced driver, I often encounter squeaky brakes when driving in the city, especially noticeable when braking slowly uphill. This usually has several causes: the most common is worn-out brake pads that have become thin, or dust and small stones stuck on the pads, causing sharp noises during friction; another reason is surface rust on the brake discs after humid weather or rain, which may produce a few squeaks initially until the rust is worn off; additionally, newly replaced brake pads might not have been properly broken in. I've checked several times myself—if the noise isn't frequent, it's usually not a big issue. However, if it's accompanied by longer braking distances or steering wheel vibrations, it's essential to visit a repair shop immediately to avoid safety risks. Parking in less dusty areas can help prevent some of these issues. In short, don’t panic—most cases can be resolved simply, but it's important to address them promptly to prevent minor issues from turning into major faults.
I have a car that I've been driving for several years, and it occasionally makes squeaking noises when braking slowly, especially noticeable during traffic jams with repeated light braking. From experience, this is often due to friction sounds caused by hard particles or grease buildup between the brake pads and discs, or natural noise from high metal content in the pad material. Another common reason is the lack of flexibility in the brake caliper retraction, leading to uneven pressure application at low speeds. Last time I encountered this, I tried cleaning the debris from the edges of the brake pads myself, and it solved the problem. Remember, if the noise persists or you feel a metal scraping sensation, it indicates severe wear, and it's time to replace the pads—safe driving should always come first. Regular checks on the braking system can save a lot of hassle.
