Why Are My Brakes Screeching?

July 16, 2024

Why Are My Brakes Screeching in Seaside, CA?

Hearing a screeching sound when you hit the brakes can be alarming. Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also indicate that something is wrong with your vehicle. Understanding the reasons behind this noise is crucial for maintaining your car’s safety and performance.

Common Causes of Screeching Brakes

Worn Brake Pads

One of the most common reasons for screeching brakes is worn brake pads. Brake pads have a metal indicator that produces a screeching sound when they’re nearly worn out. This noise serves as a warning that it’s time to replace the pads. Ignoring this sound can lead to more serious damage and reduced braking efficiency.

Dust and Debris

Sometimes, dust and debris can get caught between the brake pads and the rotor, causing a screeching sound. This is often a temporary issue and can be resolved by cleaning the brakes. Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent this problem from recurring.

Moisture

Moisture from rain, snow, or even washing your car can cause the brake pads to produce a screeching noise. This is usually not a serious issue and should disappear once the moisture evaporates. However, if the noise persists, it’s worth getting your brakes checked.

Glazed Brake Pads or Rotors

When brake pads or rotors become glazed due to excessive heat, they can produce a screeching sound. Glazing happens when the brakes are used heavily and the surfaces become smooth and shiny, reducing their effectiveness. This issue can be resolved by replacing the glazed components and ensuring proper braking techniques.

Lack of Lubrication

The brake components, such as the caliper pins and backing plates, need proper lubrication to function smoothly. Lack of lubrication can cause the brakes to screech. Regular maintenance, including lubrication, can prevent this issue and ensure smooth braking.

Importance of Addressing Screeching Brakes

Ignoring screeching brakes can lead to more serious problems. Here’s why it’s important to address the issue promptly:

- Safety: Brakes are a critical safety component of your vehicle. Screeching brakes can indicate reduced braking efficiency, which can compromise your safety on the road.
- Prevent Further Damage: Continuing to drive with screeching brakes can cause damage to other brake components, leading to more expensive repairs.
- Maintain Performance: Properly functioning brakes are essential for your vehicle’s overall performance. Addressing brake issues ensures your car performs at its best.

How Wayside Garage Can Help

At Wayside Garage, we offer comprehensive brake services to keep your vehicle safe and performing well. Here’s how we can help:

- Brake Inspections: Our certified technicians will thoroughly inspect your brakes to identify the cause of the screeching noise.
- Brake Pad Replacement: If your brake pads are worn out, we’ll replace them with high-quality parts to ensure optimal braking performance.
- Cleaning and Lubrication: We’ll clean your brake components and apply the necessary lubrication to prevent screeching and ensure smooth operation.
- Expert Advice: Our team will provide you with expert advice on how to maintain your brakes and prevent future issues.

Screeching brakes are not just annoying—they’re a sign that something is wrong with your vehicle. By understanding the common causes and addressing the issue promptly, you can ensure your car remains safe and performs well. Trust the experts at Wayside Garage to take care of your brake needs and keep you on the road with confidence.

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October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.