7 Causes of Squeaky Brakes and How To Fix Them
Squeaky brakes can be more than an annoyance—they may signal an underlying issue with your vehicle's braking system. While some brake noise is harmless, persistent squeaking could indicate more serious mechanical problems. Addressing these issues early helps maintain your vehicle's performance, enhance safety and prevent costly repairs. Below we've outlined some of the most common reasons why brakes squeak, how to fix them, and some pricing information to help you budget for repairs.
1. Worn Brake Pads
Brake pads are designed to wear down over time. When they become too thin, a built-in wear indicator creates a high-pitched squeal. Ignoring this sound can lead to metal-on-metal contact, significantly reducing braking performance and damaging the rotors.
The fix: Replace the brake pads
Installing new brake pads will eliminate the squeak and restore braking performance. For durability and quieter operation, opt for high-quality ceramic or semimetallic pads.
- Estimated cost: About $300 per axle in parts and labor for brake pad replacements.
2. Worn or Damaged Brake Hardware
Brake hardware, including calipers, shims and clips, helps the braking system operate smoothly. When these components wear out, rust or break, the brake pads may not retract properly, causing contact with the rotor and producing a continuous squeaking noise.
The fix: Replace brake hardware
A technician can inspect the brake hardware and replace worn components. Applying brake lubricant to moving parts also helps prevent noise and uneven wear.
- Estimated cost: Between $750 and $800 with parts and labor for brake caliper replacement.
3. Glazed Brake Pads and Rotors
Excessive heat from repeated hard braking or frequent stops can glaze the surface of the brake pads and rotors. This smooth, hardened surface reduces friction, which compromises stopping power and causes squeaking when braking.
The fix: Resurface or replace glazed components
Mild glazing may be removed by sanding the pads and rotors, but severe cases require replacement.
- Estimated cost: Between $15 and $40 per rotor for resurfacing and between $450 and $550 per axle in parts and labor for brake rotor replacements.
4. Dust and Debris Buildup
Brake dust, dirt and road debris, such as small stones and solid matter, can accumulate on the brake components, leading to annoying noises, especially in dry and dusty environments. When particles get trapped between the brake pad and the rotor, they create friction, resulting in audible squeaks.
The fix: Clean the brakes
Cleaning with brake cleaner or compressed air can remove debris and eliminate squeaking noises.
- Estimated cost: Between $5 and $10 for a do-it-yourself fix.
5. Lack of Lubrication
Brake system components, such as caliper slides and backing plates, require proper lubrication to function smoothly. Moving parts may bind or stick without lubrication, causing uneven pad wear and squeaking noises.
The fix: Apply brake lubricant
Applying a high-temperature brake lubricant to key contact points can help eliminate noise and ensure consistent braking performance.
- Estimated cost: Between $10 and $20 for a do-it-yourself fix.
6. Moisture on Rotors
A thin layer of rust can develop on the rotors in the morning or after a car sits in rain or high humidity. This rust can cause a squeaking sound when the brakes are first applied, but the noise should disappear after a few stops. If it doesn't, this could indicate a deeper issue, such as excessive rotor wear.
The fix: Drive and let the rust wear off
If the noise persists, a mechanic may need to inspect the brakes for excessive rust buildup, and severe cases may require replacement.
- Estimated cost: Free (if temporary) and between $450 and $550 per axle in parts and labor for brake rotor replacements.
7. Heavy-Duty Operation
Vehicles used for towing, hauling heavy loads or frequent stop-and-go conditions put extra stress on the braking system. This increased strain generates more heat and accelerates wear, which can lead to squeaking.
The fix: Stop and let the brakes cool down
Pull over and let the brakes cool off once you reach level ground. If the condition persists, have your brakes inspected.
- Estimated cost: Free (if temporary) and between $88 and $111 for a brake system inspection.
The Importance of Well-Maintained Brakes
Routine brake maintenance is crucial for keeping your vehicle safe and performing at its best. Over time, heat and friction cause brake components to wear down, but regular servicing helps maintain their effectiveness and ensures reliable stopping power. Inspections also allow mechanics to catch potential problems early, helping prevent costly repairs and safety hazards. A well-maintained braking system gives you better control on the road, ensuring quicker responses in emergencies. Additionally, regular service helps prevent brake fade and a loss of braking efficiency due to overheating by keeping components cool and functioning properly.
How Often To Change Your Brakes
Your driving habits and conditions will determine how often you need to replace your brakes.
- As a rule of thumb, have your brakes inspected every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.
- A brake inspection costs between $88 and $111, depending on local labor charges.
- Brake pads and shoes typically last between 30,000 and 35,000 miles in city driving conditions. In less demanding situations, such as highway driving with light traffic, they may last 80,000 miles or more.
Tips To Extend the Life of Your Brakes
Proper brake care not only enhances safety, but also extends the lifespan of your braking system. Follow these simple habits to reduce wear and keep your brakes performing at their best:
- Travel light: Avoid carrying unnecessary weight, as extra cargo strains the braking system. Always refer to your vehicle's towing and payload capacities in the owner's manual.
- Anticipate traffic: Maintain a safe following distance and adjust speed proactively to avoid putting extra strain on your vehicle's braking system.
- Drive smoothly: Gradually apply pressure to the brakes to reduce strain on pads and rotors, extending their lifespan.
- Stay on top of maintenance: Follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule, including brake pad inspections and adjustments, to ensure the brake system operates properly.
- Keep up with inspections: Have a mechanic check the brakes during regular tire rotations (every 5,000 to 7,500 miles) to catch issues early and help prevent costly repairs.
Synchrony Can Help
Keeping your brakes in top condition is essential for safety and cost savings. Regular inspections, smooth driving habits and staying on top of repairs can help prevent squeaky brakes and extend the lifespan of your braking system.
The Synchrony Car Care credit card can help you pay for car repairs promptly, keeping you on the road and where you need to be. Learn more and apply now.
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