Squeaking Brakes Annoying You?
Brakes start squeaking for a number of reasons. This is because the brake system is a complex set of static and moving parts. As a result, the cause of the noise may be coming from any one of these parts. This article will explain the most common causes of brake squeaking as well as brake grinding.
Brakes Squeaking Noise
- Pads are worn down:
The simplest explanation is your brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced. The pad is made of composite material which vary significantly depending on the manufacturer and the price.
Cheaper semi-metallic pads contain higher metal content which at times, can cause high frequency squealing. This is not to be confused with the brake wear indicators which are there as an early warning your pads are almost worn out and need changing. Important to note – the noise is similar so it’s advisable to get us to check your brakes for you.
- Contamination:
Noises can be caused by a variety of contaminants such as water, dust, debris, condensation and rust. The squealing can occur after driving on dust roads. Also, after driving through heavy rain a thin film of rust forms on the disc surface. In most cases, the noise will be temporary until the contaminants are burnt off the disc surface.
- Glazing:
This is a consequence of overheating. In this instance, the heat causes pads and discs to become glazed. Often referred to as a mirror surface. Once this happens, braking becomes difficult as the friction between pad and disc is no longer there. The pads are effectively slipping on the disc surface. The squeaking noise is often confused with the worn pad sound.
Brakes Grinding Noise
- Pads completely worn away:
This metal-to-metal friction can happen rather suddenly while braking. Apart from being dangerous, the damage can be extensive with deep gouges being cut into the disc surface. This emits an unmistakable grinding noise.
- Overheating:
Often this overheating of the brakes is caused by driving without releasing the handbrake. Travelling down long and winding roads with excessive braking also causes high heat build up on the pad/disc surface. This heat causes the pad surface to become hard and bumpy. This also causes the grinding sound.
Conclusion
In all the scenarios described above we strongly suggest you get hold of us as soon as possible. We are well equipped to test your braking system and advise on the correct course of action.
Please don’t continue driving once you start hearing the squeak or grinding noises. Your lives depend on ensuring your brake systems are in optimal condition.