Why do breaks squeak?
Hitting the brakes at stop lights, or merely getting a parking in a crowded parking lot, could prove to be an embarrassing moment, especially if your brakes keep squeaking. The squeaking sound it makes doesn’t only annoy you as a driver, but it also drives other people crazy.
But why would your brakes squeak like that?
According to many auto repair shop owners, the squeaking sound we hear from brakes is the break pad vibrations, and there are several possible reasons why this happens:
1. A worn or thin brake pad normally causes the brakes to squeak. To prevent this, make sure to check the thickness of your brake pads on a regular basis.
2. If the pads are still in good condition, it could also be that the frequency of the pads’ vibration is higher than usual. It usually occurs when the spring clip or rattle prevention clip attached to the pad is broken or missing.
3. No silicone insulation gel was applied to the steel backing of the brake pad. Ensure that when your brake pad is replaced, silicone insulation gel is applied. This silicone compound prevents the squeaking sounds of your brakes.
If your brake still squeak,s and you know that none of the three points is causing it, it could only be dirt and dust built up on your wheels which, can be easily resolved by hosing them down with water for a few minutes. It could also be any foreign object stuck between the rotor and the brake pads. Removing the brake pads and cleaning them vigorously will fix the squeaking problem.
If you are sure that your brake pads are new, there is no other choice but to endure the squeaking sound, which is normally temporary. The squeaking will gradually go away as you use the breaks more.
If you are still not sure, the best thing to do is to have your brakes checked by your trusted shop to ensure that there is nothing wrong with them.
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