If Your Brakes Squeal All the Time, the Following Could Be the Problem

Your brakes are trying to tell you something if they squeal all the time. Squealing brakes are definitely a sign that there is something wrong with the brake system. Techway Automotive would be happy to inspect your brakes to find out why they make noise when you use them. Chances are, the cause of the noise is one of the following problems listed below.

Broken Clips

A part called the anti-rattle clips keeps the brake pads from rattling when they press against the rotors. These clips also prevent the pad stays from rattling. If any of the clips break, you will end up with squealing brakes. This is because the clips are no longer able to hold the brake pads and stays in place when you apply the brakes to slow down your automobile.

Overheating Brakes

Squealing brakes can also be a sign that your brake system is too hot. If you are riding the brakes, which means you are keeping your foot on the brake pedal even while in motion, you could be overheating the brakes. Alongside the annoying noises, you may also smell your brakes overheating. Boiling brake fluid smells like burning chemicals and glazed brake pads smell like burning carpet.

Smooth Rotors

Another problem that will make your brakes noisy is smooth rotors. The brake pads are pressed against the rotors to create friction and kinetic energy to slow down and stop your automobile. After thousands of presses, the rotor surfaces smooth out. On average, rotor surfaces need to be recut every 60,000 miles to ensure the rotors continue to generate friction with the brake pads.

Worn Brake Pads

It’s also possible that your brakes are noisy because your brake pads have worn down. If they have worn down to the metal backings, you will hear grinding sounds when you apply the brakes. If you still have a small amount of pad surface left, your brakes will squeal to let you know that it’s time to change the brake pads. You may also get an indicator warning on your vehicle’s dashboard.

Zero Pad Insulation

During a brake pad replacement service, the mechanic must also replace the brake pad insulation. If this isn’t done, your brakes will make a ton of noise when you use them. If you just had a pad replacement and the noise started afterward, this could be the problem.

Techway Automotive in Dothan or Opp, AL, or Blakely, GA, can help. We’d be happy to inspect your brake system to find out why it makes too much noise.