Why Are My Brakes Squeaking? Common Problems and How to ID Them

April 17, 2023

Common reasons why brakes squeak and how to identify them

Wait… is it MY car that’s been squeaking this whole time?! It’s a bit unnerving to hear your brakes make any noise, but it’s a common problem that can occur for a variety of reasons.  

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the common reasons why brakes squeak and how to identify them. 

Worn Brake Pads

One of the most common reasons why brakes squeak is due to worn brake pads. Over time, the brake pads will wear down, causing a metal-on-metal sound when braking. This has the potential to be dangerous, as it could decrease your stopping power and cause longer stopping distances. 


Glazed Brake Pads

Another reason why brakes squeak is due to glazed brake pads. Glazed brake pads occur when the pads get too hot, causing a buildup of resin on the surface. This may cause a high-pitched squeaking sound when the brakes are applied. To fix glazed brake pads, the pads may need to be replaced or resurfaced.   

Worn Rotors

Rotors often become warped or uneven due to excessive heat, causing the brake pads to vibrate and make a squeaking noise. In some cases, the rotors may need to be replaced to fix the problem. 

In some cases, your whole car might vibrate while braking from warped rotors. Don’t wait on this one, get it checked out right away at Ice Cold Air! 

Loose or Broken Components

Loose or broken components in the brake system can also cause brakes to squeak.  

This can include: 

• Loose Calipers 

• Loose Brake Pads 

• Worn-out Hardware  

If you suspect loose or broken components in your brake system, it’s important to get them checked out by a professional mechanic.   


How to Identify Brake Squeaking

If you hear a squeaking noise when braking, there are a few things you can do to identify the problem. First, pay attention to when the noise occurs. Is it only when you apply the brakes, or does it happen all the time? If the noise only occurs when you apply the brakes, it’s likely an issue with your brake system.  

Next, pay attention to the sound of the squeaking. Is it a high-pitched noise, or does it sound like metal-on-metal grinding? If you’re hearing grinding, there’s no time to wait! You’ve gone too far, and your brake pads are practically gone. Get into the shop as soon as possible! 

Don’t Wait for Safe Brakes! Call Ice Cold Air

Whether you’re experiencing squeaking or grinding coming from your brakes, it’s important to get it checked out by a professional mechanic like us here at Ice Cold Air! 

Our experienced mechanics will diagnose and fix any issues with your brake system, ensuring your safety on the road. Schedule an appointment today at any of our 16 locations to get your brakes checked and keep the roads safe!

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