Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

Reason 1: Worn Brake Pads

There are a few reasons why your brakes might be making noises, and we’ll go in order. The most likely scenario, and the most obvious, is that your vehicle’s brake pads are worn. What does that sound like?

It’s the squealing you’re familiar with. It makes this sound because, when brake pads are thin, they hit a metal indicator that emits a noise. That screech is by design, so you can tell it’s time for your vehicle’s brakes to be replaced.

Do note that it’s possible for other squeaky noises to come from brake pads, even when they’re not thin; this could be a thin layer of rust, for example. However, this noise in particular should diminish after a few applications of the brake.

Reason 2: Debris Between Pad and Rotor

Secondly, another familiar cause of the squealing you hear could be debris on the brakes. This might be mud, dirt, or other things you encounter while driving (or if your car has been sitting for a while, dust), and it sticks between the pad and rotor, resulting in the noise.

This can be remedied by spraying cleaner or using the brakes, which would get rid of the debris after a short period of usage.

Reason 3: The Way You Brake

Lastly, although it’s not the final reason, there’s another common source of squeaky brakes:  the way you push the pedal. No, really!

When you brake hard and fast, particularly when you’re moving at a high velocity, you can generate a lot of heat. This can sometimes result in a smoothness on the surface of the brake pads, otherwise called “glazing.” When you ride brakes downhill, when you speed. . . it can come from a variety of sources, but the friction and heat results in this glaze.

Glazed brakes must be replaced because they can no longer service your vehicle the way they’re supposed to. They can also crack, causing more trouble on the go.