Squeak or Squeal When Braking
A squeak or squeal when braking is one of the most common signals from your car, usually indicating problems with the brake pads. You cannot ignore this sound, as the safety of your brakes directly affects your safety on the road.
Likely causes — most common first
Worn-out Brake Pads
The sound most often occurs due to the activation of a special metal indicator (squealer) or the complete wear of the working layer of the pad down to the metal. This leads to a decrease in braking efficiency and the risk of damaging the brake discs.
Worn or Deformed Brake Discs
Deep grooves or uneven wear on the metal disc's surface create constant friction with new or old pads, accompanied by an unpleasant whine.
Dirt, Dust, or Small Stones
A small stone, sand, or road reagent may have gotten between the brake pad and disc, creating a sharp screech when you press the pedal.
Rust on the Caliper Guides
If the movable parts of the brake mechanism (caliper) have rusted due to dirt or corrosion, the pad does not fully retract and constantly rubs against the disc even without pressing the pedal.
Low-quality Pad Material
Cheaper or overly rigid pads may contain a large amount of metal shavings in their composition, causing them to constantly squeak when rubbing against the disc.
