Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

Not many sounds from your vehicle are as ear-piercing and uncomfortable as a squealing noise from your brakes. Not only does this noise sound as unpleasant as nails on a chalkboard, but it’s also likely warning you of an issue in your brake system.

In this article, we’ll cover the common causes of brake squeaking, how these issues occur, and how to prevent this in the future!

How Do Brakes Work?

Modern brake disc systems rely on a surprisingly simple process to slow your vehicle down. Using hydraulic fluid, the brake pedal will transfer and amplify its force through the brake lines and to the calipers sitting on the brake’s rotors. Using this hydraulic force, the caliper will push abrasive brake pads down on the rotor’s surface to generate friction and slow the vehicle to a stop. 

Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

Worn Out Pads

Of course, this constant friction between the pads and rotors will cause both to degrade, removing the abrasive material on the pads and marring the smooth surface of the rotors. While wear is expected, pads can wear down to dangerous levels if left unreplaced. 

When pads wear past their maximum life, there is a metal wear bar within the pads that will contact the rotor and cause an uncomfortable squealing noise. This noise is annoying for a reason, as it’s warning you that you require new pads as soon as possible and shouldn’t be ignored. 

At the point the wear bar is reached, the friction material of the pads is largely worn away and will not be able to generate adequate friction for safe and smooth stops. 

Improper Installation

But what if your pads are fairly new? Surely they haven’t worn through their pads yet. In this instance, there’s a chance it may be due to improper installation of your brake components. This commonly occurs when one of the installed components makes contact with the brake rotor or other rotating part and rubs against it, causing the dreaded squealing noise.

Weather Conditions

Not all brake squealing indicates a serious issue, in fact, you’ve probably heard a similar sound before when driving in the rain or snow. In most cases, this is due to the build-up of condensation on the brake rotors, causing the pads to rub against the wet rotors and producing an audible squeaking sound when braking.

Fortunately, this condition is temporary as the condensation will burn off from the rotors fairly quickly. If the noise continues, your issue may go beyond condensation from weather and should be inspected by a professional. 

Rust/Debris on Rotors

Another temporary cause of a squealing sound from your brakes is the build-up of rust or debris on your rotor. When sitting for long periods of time, especially outside, it’s possible for a light layer of rust and/or debris to develop on the surface of the brake rotors from humidity and moisture in the air. When initially braking, this rust can cause improper contact between the pads and rotors, leading to a squealing sound as the rust is rubbed away. 

Similar to condensation build-up, a few hard pushes on the brake pedal while driving will likely clear the debris up, giving your rotor a clean surface for generating friction and stopping the vehicle. 

How to Prevent Brake Squeaking

There are a few steps owners can take to protect their braking systems from the issues that cause such an unpleasant noise, including:

• Change brake pads and rotors as needed
• Use coasting and progressive braking to extend the life of friction components
• Use the parking brake when the car is off, especially on hills
• Clean your rotors using disc brake cleaner
• Keep the vehicle indoors to prevent condensation and rust build-up

Brake Services in Northern Idaho

If your brakes are emitting a squealing noise, or having problems otherwise, trust the expert technicians at Lake City Auto Care at our locations in Rathdrum, Hayden, and Coeur D’Alene to properly service your braking system and ensure it’s in good condition to continue keeping you safe! Give us a call or schedule online with us today.