Are you hearing a squealing noise coming from your brakes? It’s important to take action right away. Squealing brakes can be a sign of a serious problem, such as worn brake pads or a warped rotor. In some cases, squeaking brakes can also be a sign of a minor problem, such as debris caught between the brake pad and the rotor.
Here are some of the most common reasons why brakes squeal:
- Worn brake pads: This is the most common reason for squeaking brakes. As brake pads wear down, they become thinner and thinner. Eventually, the metal backing plate of the brake pad will come into contact with the rotor, making a high-pitched squealing noise.
- Warped rotor: A rotor is a metal disc that the brake pad clamps down on to stop the wheel. If a rotor becomes warped, it can cause the brake pad to vibrate, which can produce a squealing noise.
- Debris caught between the brake pad and rotor: Sometimes, debris such as dirt, rocks, or metal shavings can get caught between the brake pad and rotor. This can cause a squealing or grinding noise when you brake.
- Lack of lubrication: The brake caliper slides on pins that need to be lubricated to prevent squealing. If the pins are not lubricated, they can start to squeak.
Glazed brake pads: Brake pads can become glazed or hardened over time. This can reduce their effectiveness and make them more likely to squeal. - Cheap or low-quality brake pads: Some brake pads are made with cheaper materials that are more likely to squeal. If you’ve recently had your brakes replaced, and they’re now squealing, it’s possible that the mechanic used low-quality brake pads.
How to fix the squealing noise in your brakes:
The best way to fix squealing brakes depends on the cause of the problem.
- Worn brake pads? Replace them.
- Warped rotors? Resurface or replace them.
- Debris caught between the brake pad and rotor? Remove it.
- Are brake caliper slides dry and squeaky? Lubricate them.
- Are brake pads glazed and ineffective? Deglaze them.
If you’re not sure how to fix the problem yourself, or if you don’t have the tools or skills necessary, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
Here are some tips for preventing squealing brakes:
- Have your brakes inspected and maintained regularly. This will help to identify any problems early on before they cause squealing brakes or other problems.
- Use high-quality brake pads. This will help to reduce the risk of squeaking.
- Avoid hard braking. Hard braking can cause the brake pads to overheat, which can lead to glazing.
- Lubricate the brake caliper slides regularly. This will help to prevent squealing.
- If you’re not sure what’s causing your brakes to squeal, or if you’re not comfortable fixing the problem yourself, it’s important to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
If you find yourself in a situation where you think it’s unsafe to continue in your vehicle because of your brakes – or some other issue, don’t forget to call Limitless Towing. Call us at 1-847-851-4400. We are open 24/7 and we offer Light Duty Towing and Heavy Duty Towing and many other services as well.
