Why does the Passat make a squeaking noise when braking?
2 Answers
Passat making a squeaking noise when braking is mostly due to issues with the brake guide tube. Rust inside the brake guide tube or dirty lubricant can cause poor return performance. Cleaning the brake guide tube, polishing it with fine sandpaper, and applying new lubricant can solve the problem. It could also be an issue with the brake caliper, requiring replacement of the brake caliper, though this type of failure is relatively rare. The following situations can all cause abnormal brake noises: 1. Using low-quality or overly hard brake pads: If low-quality or overly hard brake pads are used, stepping on the brakes will cause the brake pads to rub against the brake disc, producing a squeaking noise. When replacing brake pads, it is essential to use high-quality ones. 2. Presence of sand or foreign objects between the brake pad and brake disc: During normal driving, it is inevitable to pass through some complex road conditions. Due to the unique design of disc brakes, some sand and foreign objects may get between the brake pad and brake disc, causing abnormal noises when braking. 3. Severe wear of the brake disc: Using low-quality brake pads or having hard foreign objects between the brake pad and brake disc can lead to abnormal wear of the brake disc. If the brake disc is severely worn, stepping on the brakes will also produce a squeaking noise. 4. Brake pad warning: If the wear level of the brake pads reaches the warning line, they will emit a squeaking alarm sound, indicating that they need to be replaced promptly.
I also experienced squeaky brakes when driving my Passat, which is usually caused by worn brake pads. After prolonged use, the pads thin out, leading to louder friction noises. Additionally, the brake discs may rust or develop scratches, especially in damp or rainy conditions. Last year, I neglected to check them, and the noise grew increasingly louder. When I finally took it to the repair shop, the pads were almost completely worn down, nearly affecting the braking distance. Now, I make it a habit to regularly check the pad thickness—I recommend inspecting them every six months or every 10,000 kilometers. If they're thinning out, replace them promptly—don’t try to save money by pushing their limits, as safety is paramount. Also, avoid harsh braking in daily driving; gentler braking can extend the lifespan of your brakes.
