Don’t you hate that awkward moment when you pull up to a light and everyone is looking at you because your car is making a horrendous squealing noise? What in the world is that? I just had my brakes replaced, how could they be making noise?
Five Reasons Brakes Make Noise
At Willoughby Hills, these are the most common causes of noisy brakes. Whatever the cause is, if you notice new or unusual noises coming from your brakes, come to Willoughby Hills today. Brake issues are not something that should be ignored.
Worn Out Brake Pads
Brake pads don’t last forever, and usually, wear out in two years for front brakes, and four years for rear brakes. Did you know on the newer vehicles the rear brakes are used a lot for cornering, steering, and handling! We actually see a lot of rear brakes wear out fast than the front because of this. Of course, all of this is depending on driving habits.
Some brakes pads are designed to squeal when they get low. This is not as common as it used to be with the invention of brake pad wear sensors. If you’re getting a grinding noise you have most likely run the lining material down to zero, and the noise is the backing plate hitting the rotor and these need to be checked out immediately!
Uneven Rotor Surface
The second common problem we see with brake noises is the rotor surface being uneven. This happens most commonly from wear. Towing heavy loads or lots of braking can build up heat and “warp” the rotors. As the rotor goes around the brake pad can’t sit on the uneven surface completely, and can start making noise. We will usually recommend resurfacing or replace the rotors when this is an issue.
Brake Caliper Problems
Brake calipers that have been sticking or missing hardware can cause the pressure applied by the calipers to not be applied evenly. When this happens, it will most likely wear out the brakes unevenly. If the hardware starts to stick, and won’t release, it will cause the brake pads to stick and cause noises, and poor braking. As brake calipers stick and do not slide properly, the brake pads will rub constantly and in turn build up the heat and cause crystallization and squeal.
Poor Quality Brake Pad Material
The fourth thing we see is an issue with the brake pad material itself. When you buy anything these days, there is always good, better, and best. The basic “good” brake pads are cheaper material and tend to make a lot of noise. They will stop your car, but don’t expect to have smooth or quiet stopping power. This is one reason we do not use value brake pads. You get what you pay for.
Incorrect Installation
Missing shims, caliper slides, brake hardware, or hardware not lubricated properly. Brake pads are not as easy to install as you once thought. When we remove the brakes the first thing we do is clean everything and polish the hardware. Remove any rust, road debris, and most important old and sticky lubricates.
After the cleaning, you need to re-apply good lubricate and install the shims and any other hardware that is replaceable. This will really ensure that the brake pad slides, brake shims, brake pins, brake hardware, is all moving evenly and properly. Shims are commonly ignored when brake pads are installed. However, shims are the main component to absorb the vibrations from the brakes. Vibrations in brakes will make noise.
For brake inspections, brake installation, and brake repair, there is nobody who can beat the level of brake service you will receive at Willoughby Hills Auto Repair. Call us today to schedule an appointment.