When something is amiss with your brakes, one of the ways that they will let you know is through the sound they make. Brakes may make mean sounds, including squeaking, squealing, screeching and grinding. Unfortunately, sound alone is not the only way to diagnose a brake problem. This is because your brakes may be squeaking or squealing for a few different reasons. Here are some of those reasons.
Worn Out Brake Pads or Shoes
The number one reason why your brakes may be squeaking or squealing is because your brake pads, also referred to as brake shoes, are wearing thin. When you press on your brakes, the brake pads rub along your rotors to bring your car to a stop. Each time they are used, they lose a little of their thickness. Eventually, they begin to wear thin and need to be replaced. When they are thin, they no longer have padding, which is why you are hearing the squeaking or squealing noise. The noise will get louder the longer you drive on the worn brake pads. The problem will immediately go away if you have the brake pads or shoes replaced.
Loose Brake Parts
Another reason why your brakes may be squeaking or squealing is because you have loose parts. There are many parts that make up your brake system, including the brake pads, the rotors, calipers and hoses that carry brake fluid to the brake system. If one part of the system becomes loose, either due to wear, an accident or road debris hitting it, you may hear a squeaking or squealing noise. The noise may be present anytime you are driving or only when you hit the brakes. Having the loose parts adjusted or tightened up will correct the issue.
Weather Conditions
Ice, snow, rain and humidity can all cause your brakes to squeaking or squeal. Moisture can cause water or moisture to build up around the brake rotors or drums. When you drive, you may hear squealing or squeaking until the brakes heat up and the moisture or condensation dries up and goes away. If you only hear the sound when you first run your car, moisture is likely the cause of your squeaking or squealing.
Dust and Dirt
Lastly, dirt and dust may accumulate in the brake system and cause squeaking or squealing. If your brakes are making noises, use your hose to spray down the tires and brake system. If the sound seems to go away or lessen, dust and dirt are the likely culprits. Professional brake cleaning can remove all of the dirt and dust on your brake system and stop the squeaking or squealing that remains.
If your brakes are squealing or squeaking and you cannot determine why your brakes are making that sound, you should bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop. A car repair shop can examine your brakes, and measure the thickness of the brake pad and rotors to determine if they are worn and need to be replaced. When you need car repair that you can trust and rely on in the Central Valley, let us at Morgan Automotive Repair help you. Schedule an appointment to have your brakes examined by giving us a call.