Why Your Car’s Brakes Are Squeaking – Causes & Fixes
Why Your Car’s Brakes Are Squeaking – Causes & Fixes
Squeaky brakes are one of the most common concerns for drivers, but not all brake noises mean you need urgent repairs. Some squeaks are harmless, while others signal worn-out brake pads, glazed discs, or more serious brake system issues.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we specialise in brake inspections, repairs, and replacements, ensuring your vehicle’s braking system is safe and effective. In this guide, we’ll explain:
✅ Common causes of squeaky brakes
✅ When brake squeaking is normal vs. when it’s a problem
✅ How to fix noisy brakes
✅ How to prevent brake squeaks in the future
If your brakes have started making high-pitched noises, here’s everything you need to know.
1. Why Do Brakes Squeak? Common Causes
🚗 Brakes can squeak for several reasons, ranging from harmless moisture buildup to serious wear and tear.
🔧 Top Causes of Squeaky Brakes:
✔️ Moisture on Brake Discs – Overnight condensation can cause a temporary squeak when braking.
✔️ Worn Brake Pads – Most brake pads have a built-in wear indicator that squeals when the pads are too thin.
✔️ Glazed Brake Pads or Discs – Overheating from heavy braking can cause brake pad glazing, reducing stopping power.
✔️ Dust and Debris Build-up – Dirt or rust between the pads and discs can create a high-pitched squeal.
✔️ Lack of Brake Lubrication – Dry brake components, especially the caliper slides and shims, can cause squeaking.
✔️ Cheap or Low-Quality Brake Pads – Some budget brake pads contain hard metal particles that cause noise.
📌 Ignoring squeaky brakes can lead to costly damage and longer stopping distances—so it’s important to diagnose the cause early.
2. When Is Brake Squeaking Normal vs. When It’s a Problem?
🚨 Not all brake squeaks indicate a fault, but knowing the difference can prevent costly repairs.
✔️ Normal, Harmless Brake Squeaks:
✅ First few stops in the morning (due to condensation).
✅ Light brake squeaks on new brake pads while bedding in.
✅ Intermittent squeaks when driving in wet or cold weather.
❌ Brake Squeaks That Indicate a Problem:
🚫 Persistent squeaking or grinding when braking.
🚫 Squeaking that gets worse over time.
🚫 High-pitched squeal that stops when you apply the brakes (a sign of worn brake pads).
🚫 Squeaks accompanied by vibrations or pulsing in the brake pedal.
🚫 Loud screeching or metal-on-metal grinding (indicating pad wear beyond safe levels).
📌 If your brakes are making persistent noise, book an inspection to prevent safety risks.
3. How to Fix Squeaky Brakes
🔧 Fixing squeaky brakes depends on the cause of the noise. Here’s how we diagnose and resolve the issue at Andrews Car Centre:
🔹 Step 1: Inspect the Brake Pads
✔️ Check pad thickness—if they’re worn below 3mm, replacement is required.
✔️ Examine pads for glazing, which can be caused by overheating.
✔️ Ensure the pad material is high quality—cheap pads are more likely to squeak.
🔹 Step 2: Check the Brake Discs
✔️ Inspect for warping, glazing, or rust buildup.
✔️ Look for grooves or uneven wear patterns, which can indicate a problem.
✔️ Resurface or replace damaged brake discs if necessary.
🔹 Step 3: Lubricate the Brake Components
✔️ Apply high-temperature grease to the brake pad backing plates, caliper slides, and contact points.
✔️ Avoid getting lubrication on the brake pad surface or disc, as this can reduce stopping power.
🔹 Step 4: Clean the Brake System
✔️ Remove any dirt, debris, or rust buildup from the brake system.
✔️ If brake dust is excessive, consider using ceramic brake pads, which produce less dust than traditional pads.
🔹 Step 5: Adjust the Brake Components if Necessary
✔️ Ensure brake pads are seated correctly.
✔️ Inspect the calipers for sticking or improper alignment.
✔️ Replace any worn or damaged shims, which help prevent brake noise.
📌 Most brake noise issues can be resolved with proper maintenance—don’t ignore persistent squeaking.
4. How to Prevent Brake Squeaks in the Future
🚗 Preventative maintenance can help keep your brakes quiet and effective.
✅ Use High-Quality Brake Pads – Cheap pads tend to be noisier and wear out faster.
✅ Get Your Brakes Checked Regularly – Routine brake inspections help catch issues early.
✅ Avoid Hard Braking When Possible – Sudden, heavy braking can cause glazing.
✅ Clean Your Brakes When Needed – Removing brake dust and debris can prevent noise.
✅ Lubricate Brake Components Properly – Ensure key areas have adequate lubrication.
📌 Regular brake maintenance keeps your braking system quiet, safe, and reliable.
5. Why Choose Andrews Car Centre for Brake Repairs in Lincoln?
At Andrews Car Centre, we offer expert brake diagnostics, repairs, and replacements to keep your car safe on the road.
✔️ Comprehensive Brake Inspections – Identifying pad wear, disc damage, and calliper issues.
✔️ High-Quality Brake Parts – Using OEM-approved or premium aftermarket brake pads and discs.
✔️ Affordable & Transparent Pricing – No hidden costs, just expert service.
✔️ Fast Turnaround Times – Get your brakes checked and repaired quickly.
✔️ Brake Fluid Checks & Replacements – Ensuring your entire braking system is functioning correctly.
🚗 Don’t ignore brake squeaks—book an inspection today!
Book Your Brake Inspection or Repair at Andrews Car Centre Today!
📞 Call Andrews Car Centre now or book online for expert brake servicing in Lincoln.
🚗🔧 Andrews Car Centre – Lincoln’s Trusted Brake Repair Specialists.