Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

Squeaking brakes can be frustrating, but they also serve as an important warning that your brake system may need attention. At Wayside Garage, we believe it’s important to understand what causes your brakes to squeak and how to address the issue before it leads to bigger problems.

Why Do My Brakes Squeak?

Squeaking brakes are a common issue, and there are several possible reasons behind it:

1. Worn Brake Pads

The most frequent cause of squeaking brakes is worn-out brake pads. Modern brake pads often come with a built-in metal wear indicator, which makes a high-pitched noise when the pads are getting too thin. This squeal is your car’s way of telling you it’s time for a replacement before more damage is done to the brake system​

Sometimes, squeaking can occur due to moisture or debris, like dust or small rocks, getting stuck between the brake pads and rotors. This can be especially common after driving in rainy or dusty conditions. While the noise may disappear after driving for a bit, it’s still worth having your brakes inspected if the sound persists​

If your rotors are overheated, they can become glazed or warped, which reduces their ability to interact smoothly with the brake pads. This can create squeaking or even grinding noises. Over time, heat buildup can damage the rotors, making it harder for your car to stop safely​

In some cases, the brake pads themselves might be the culprit. Low-quality pads made from harder materials can create more noise than higher-quality pads. While cheaper pads may save you money upfront, they can lead to faster wear on other components like rotors, ultimately costing you more in repairs​

Squeaking brakes are your vehicle’s way of telling you that something is off, and ignoring the noise could lead to more costly repairs down the road. Worn brake pads, in particular, can damage your rotors, requiring replacement rather than just resurfacing. Additionally, if your brakes are squeaking due to debris, it’s better to have them cleaned out rather than risk more serious damage.

What Can I Do to Fix the Problem?

The best way to address squeaking brakes is to bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. At Wayside Garage, our certified technicians will check the condition of your brake pads, rotors, and other components to ensure everything is functioning safely. If your pads are worn, we’ll replace them with high-quality parts to get rid of that noise and restore your braking power.

October is Brakes for Breasts Month at Wayside Garage!

This October, take advantage of our Brakes for Breasts promotion! Get a free set of brake pads or brake shoes with any brake service, and we’ll donate 10% of all brake repair proceeds to help fund breast cancer vaccine research. It’s a great opportunity to keep your vehicle safe and support a great cause at the same time.

Schedule Your Brake Service Today!

If you’re hearing squeaking brakes, don’t wait—schedule your brake service with Wayside Garage today. Let our experts take care of your brakes and make sure your car is safe for the road ahead.