Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

There are many reasons why your brakes might be squeaking during your regular drives around Casper, Gillette, Cheyenne, Sheridan, or Buffalo, Wyoming. The Fremont CDJR Casper team has drawn up this information to help you determine what might be causing this issue in your car.

First, we’ll cover how long your brakes can last as well as how your brakes are configured to help you understand how they operate. Then, we’ll dive into a few of the potential culprits when it comes to squeaky brakes. Continue reading to get started.

Brake Components

A brake is made up of a rotor or disc and two brake pads positioned on each side. When you apply pressure to the pedal, the pads will squeeze against the rotor. The rotor is cast-iron. As for the brake pads, there are three possible materials:  

• Semi-metallic
• Ceramic
• Organic

Of these, semi-metallic brake pads are the most common and are made of a combination of steel, graphite, copper, and iron.

How Long Brakes Last

Brakes generally have a lifespan that can range from 25,000 to 70,000 miles. There are many factors that come into play to determine where in that range your brakes will fall. For instance, the way you drive your car, wear and tear, and the quality of the brakes themselves can shorten the life of your brakes considerably.

The Water Factor

Squeaking brakes could simply be due to the presence of water on the brake pads caused by rain or dew. If some of this moisture is on your brake pads, you could hear water being scraped off the pads when you push down on the pedal. This should stop once all the water has been scraped away. If it doesn’t stop, it could mean one of the following situations might be the reason for the noise.  

Worn Brake Pads

Brake pads are insulated to keep the metal on the pad and the rotor from grinding against one another. When the insulation wears down, this is exactly what you’ll hear. Most brake pads come with wear indicators. These steel clips will make a squeaking sound when they become exposed. Either way, there’s a good chance that a squeaking noise when braking means it’s time to have your vehicle’s brake pads replaced.

Loose Parts

When elements of your car’s brake system, such as the anti-rattle clips that hold your brake pads in place or the brake shims that reduce brake noise, have become loose or broken off, squeaking can result.

New Parts

The reason for squeaking brakes could also merely be that a new rotor or brake pad is making this noise as it gets worn in. This common occurrence should disappear after a few days.  

Schedule Your Brake Appointment With Our Team Today

If you currently hear squeaking noises when you push down on the brake pedal, you’re welcome to contact us here at Fremont CDJR Casper serving Gillette, Casper, Sheridan, Buffalo, and Cheyenne, WY. Our crew of certified technicians will be happy to take a look.