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Squeaking car brakes: what causes it and how to fix it?

When you're behind the wheel of your car, safety is a top priority. One of the most important aspects of ensuring safety on the road is a braking system in top condition. However, you may encounter a common problem that can cause concern: squealing in your car's brakes.

Squealing when braking can be alarming and disconcerting, but in most cases, it does not indicate a serious problem. However, it is important to address this issue in order to maintain proper functioning of the braking system and ensure safe driving.

Today at SDT Brakes, we want to explain in detail the most common causes of squeaking in car brakes and provide practical solutions to resolve this issue. If you've experienced the annoying squeal when braking and are wondering what causes it and how to fix it, you're in the right place.

Throughout this article, we'll examine the different causes that can lead to squealing in your car's brakes, from worn brake pads to irregularities in the disc surface. We'll also give you a step-by-step guide on how to fix this problem and prevent future squealing.

Remember that good brakes are essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Don't ignore brake squealing in your car and take the right steps to solve this problem - read on to find out everything you need to know about brake squealing in your car and how to fix it effectively!

Why do brakes squeal?

Squealing in a car's brakes is more common than you might think and can be caused by a variety of reasons. It is important to understand that squeal itself is not a normal brake operating condition and must be addressed to maintain the efficiency and safety of the braking system.

One of the most common causes of brake squeal is brake pad wear. Brake pads are designed with a friction material that wears out over time and use. As the pads wear, squeal may occur when they come into contact with the brake discs. In these cases, it is important to check and replace worn brake pads to eliminate squeal and ensure effective braking.

Causes of squeaking brakes: when do they make noise?

There are several reasons why a car's brakes may squeal when braking. Below are some of the most common causes:

 

Brake pad wear: Brake pads are one of the main causes of brake squeal. As they wear down, the remaining friction material can generate squealing noise when it comes into contact with the brake disc.

 

Dirt and Dust Accumulation: Accumulation of dirt, dust and other debris on brake system components can cause squeal. These materials can interfere with the smooth movement of the brake pads and generate noise when braking.

 

Brake Disc Surface: Irregularities in the brake disc surface, such as grooves or scratches, can cause squealing when braking. These imperfections can interfere with proper pad-to-disc contact.

 

Heat and humidity: Environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and high humidity, can influence brake squeal. Excessive heat can cause friction materials to adhere to the disc, causing squeal. Moisture can also cause corrosion of brake components and generate noise.

Brake system problems: Sometimes squealing can indicate a more serious problem in the brake system, such as uneven pad wear, incorrect brake calibration or master cylinder problems.

Racing metallic and semi-metallic compounds: In this case the noise is usually normal and usually always does. Being a non-street compound, you should always check it before and after track or rally use as you would all other safety and performance points of the track day or rally car.

What to do about squeaking brakes?

If you experience squealing in your car's brakes, here are some solutions you can try:

Check and replace brake pads: If your brake pads are worn, it is advisable to replace them. Make sure you choose good quality brake pads that conform to the manufacturer's specifications.

Clean brake system components: Thoroughly clean brake pads, discs and calipers to remove dirt and debris that may be causing the squeal.

Grind or replace brake discs: If the brake discs have significant irregularities, they may need to be ground or replaced to restore a smooth surface and prevent squeal.

Apply anti- squeal products: There are products on the market designed to reduce brake squeal. These products are applied to the brake pads and can help improve contact and reduce squeal.

Check and adjust the brake system: If squealing persists after performing the above measures, it is advisable to take the car to a specialist workshop for a complete brake system check. A qualified technician will be able to identify and fix any underlying problems.

Squeaking in car brakes is a common problem that can cause discomfort and concern, but in most cases, it is not a cause for alarm. Identifying the causes of squeal is essential to apply the right solutions and maintain a braking system in optimum condition.

Some of the most common causes of brake squeal include pad wear, dirt and dust build-up, irregularities in the brake disc surface, heat and humidity, and possible problems in the brake system. To solve this problem, it is important to check and replace worn brake pads, clean brake system components, grind or replace brake discs, and, if necessary, have the brake system checked by a professional for a complete overhaul. 

In addition, taking preventive measures such as the use of anti-rattle products and regular maintenance of the brake system can help to avoid future squealing and ensure safe and efficient operation.

Remember that road safety is of paramount importance, and brakes play a key role in this. If you experience squealing in your car's brakes, don't ignore the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it. Keep your brakes in good condition and enjoy a smooth and safe drive.

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