Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?
Proper brake performance is essential to your vehicle’s safety while on the road. It is important that your braking system is always working at its best. When you hear your brakes squeaking, this can be a sign of trouble within your system. Here are some of the most common culprits of brake squeaking:
Rusted or Moist Braking System
If your braking system is beginning to rust, you might find that the brakes start to squeak. This is a common issue that is often caused by leaving your car sitting in a moist environment for an extended period of time. It is almost impossible to avoid moisture as a driver, so you will be happy to know that this kind of issue is often relatively superficial, in which case it clears on its own after a little while. One way to prevent this kind of brake squeaking is to store your vehicle in the garage overnight instead of outdoors. This climate control will minimize the moisture that your braking system is exposed to.
Worn Brake Pads
Your brake pads need to be replaced regularly, as the system relies on brake pad friction to help your vehicle arrive at a complete stop. Over time, the brake pads become worn down and thin. When the brake pads are nearing the need of replacement, they may cause your braking system to squeak. Read more here about how to tell when you are in need of new brake pads. It is important that you get your brake pads replaced before they begin to affect your vehicle’s function.
Brake Fluid Issues
If your brake fluid has become worn or diluted, it can affect your overall brake function. A brake fluid flush is an easy solution to this specific type of issue. This service allows the mechanic to remove all of the old and ineffective fluid and replenish it with a fresh variant.
Heavy Loads and Difficult Terrains
If you are carrying significantly more weight in your vehicle than usual, this creates added pressure and heat within your braking system. You can create similar strain and heat with long drives and difficult terrains. This type of squeaking should clear after you relieve the vehicle of this extra strain and your braking system has time to cool. If not, you might find that your vehicle has additional needed service to be addressed.
Dirt in Your Braking System
Whether you have recently been driving on dirt roads, near sandy beaches, or on off-road paths, this dirt and debris have the potential to get caught in your braking system, causing some disruption. This often clears over time or can be cleared with a braking lubricant. You can also prevent this type of damage to your system by minimizing your time spent on driving on these different terrains.
Cold Weather
Colder weather can comprehensively cause strain on your vehicle, including your braking system. Unfortunately, this time of year is when it is especially important that your brakes are working at their best. If possible, parking your vehicle in the garage can be helpful in preventing weather-related issues. If you feel that the squeaking and strain on your brakes are a cause for concern, bring your vehicle in for a checkup. This will prevent any dangerous situations that may arise with the combination of wintery weather and poor brake function.
Type of Brake Pad
Certain types of brake pads are more prone to squeaking than others, including more metallic brake pads and harder brake pads. While these often work equally as well or better than other brake pads, the squeaking will likely not go away over time. If you find that this kind of brake pad impedes on your driving experience, you can ask for a different brand of brake pads during your next mechanic visit.
Brake Service Near Me
If your brakes are squeaking, they are likely in need of mechanic inspection and brake service. Chapel Hill Tire has everything that you need to get your brakes working like new. With mechanics in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Carrboro, and Durham, the professionals at Chapel Hill Tire are easily accessible to drivers throughout the Triangle. Make an appointment today with your local Chapel Hill Tire mechanics.