Squeaky brakes can be annoying but, more than that, they can be worrisome and even dangerous. Oftentimes, this sound can indicate that there is a problem that needs attention. Knowing what might be causing the squeak is essential for deciding if you need professional help or not. Here are the top eight reasons your brakes might be squeaking.
1. Worn Brake Pads
One of the most common reasons your brakes are making a squeaking sound is worn-out brake pads. These components naturally wear down over time, losing their thickness. This can lead to metal-on-metal contact, which causes the noise you’re hearing. Many brake pads have a wear indicator that is designed to make noise when the brake pad has worn too thin. Essentially, this is your car’s way of telling you that it’s time for a change. This is a job that you can likely do yourself at home, but either way, it needs to be addressed promptly before it becomes a safety concern.
2. Moisture and Humidity
Squeaky brakes can also be a sign of moisture buildup on your brakes. If you’re noticing the squeaking on damp mornings or after heavy rain, it could be caused by a thin layer of rust forming on the rotor. This will only cause a squeak when you first start driving and will typically go away as you use the brakes and drive. Thankfully, this squeaking doesn’t require any immediate action. It’s more of a nuisance than anything else.
3. Poor Quality Brake Pads
Not all car parts are created equal, that includes brake pads. If you’ve purchased low-quality brake pads, it can cause some unwanted noise. This is because lower-quality pads will often contain more metal fragments than premium options. While this doesn’t come at a cost of your safety, it can create a squeaking sound when they come into contact with the rotors. Although it can be pricey, investing in better quality brake pads is the fix for this. The upfront cost is higher, but the brake pads are more likely to last longer and provide smooth, noise-free braking.
4. Lack of Lubrication on Brake Parts
Your brakes need lubrication to work properly. Lack of lubrication can lead to squeaks when you pump your brakes. Applying a small amount of brake lubricant to the caliper slides and backside of the brake pads can help you solve this issue. However, it’s important to be careful with this. Using too much lubricant on your brakes can have a negative impact on your brakes.
5. Misaligned Brake Parts
If you’ve had work done on your brakes recently, they could be misaligned. The various parts of your braking system (rotors, pads, and calipers) need to be properly aligned to work well. If they are even slightly misaligned, they can cause vibrations and noise. Misalignment can happen for a number of reasons, including worn parts or improper installation. Ultimately, keeping your brakes aligned helps you avoid the awful squeaking sound and it can help extend the lifespan of your braking system.
6. Worn Brake Rotors
Brake rotors, like everything in your braking system, are prone to wear over time. When your rotors become uneven or develop grooves, it can cause squeaking. Having worn-out rotors will make your brakes feel less responsive. It’s important to pay attention to how your car is acting when you brake. If you hear the squeaking sound along with a pulsating sensation when you hit the brakes, it’s likely an issue with your rotors.
7. Brake Pad Glazing
Any time your brake pads overheat, they can develop a smooth, glass-like surface. This is referred to as “glazing.” When this happens, the hardened layer doesn’t grip the rotor effectively, creating the squeaking sound that’s likely driving you crazy. Glazing usually occurs when you brake too heavily or ride the brakes for extended periods of time. Unfortunately, there is no way to undo this damage. You’ll have to replace the brakes.
8. Accumulated Dust and Debris
Like any other part of your car, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on your brake pads and rotors. This will cause a squeaking sound. Luckily, you just need to perform a quick cleaning and you can get rid of the squeaking sound. It’s a good idea to maintain your brakes by cleaning them regularly, especially if you drive through dirt or dusty areas on a regular basis.
Keep Your Brakes in Check for a Quiet Ride
When you hear squeaky brakes, it can be frustrating and even stressful. If you find yourself wondering about your brakes, keep these reasons for the squeaky sounds in mind. Sometimes you’ll have to replace pads or rotors, but the fix could be as easy as cleaning them off or waiting the moisture out. As with everything with your car, regular maintenance can help you upkeep your braking system. Taking care of them will help you ensure a smoother, quieter ride.