Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

Squeak-squeak… squeak-squeak… squeak-squeak… What is that noise? Listen… Louder! Louder! Louder! Drivers, dissemble no more—it’s the squeaking of your very own brakes! Even Edgar Allan Poe could not have imagined a sound like this.

Like Poe’s narrator, you may find questions flooding your thoughts: Is this a safety concern? How far can I drive before I need service? Why are my brakes squeaking?

At Cloninger Toyota, we want to shed light on your situation. Look below, you Mooresville, Huntersville, Lexington, and Salisbury drivers. Tear up the planks and investigate your tell-tale brakes!

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What’s That Dripping from the Brakes?

You may be shocked to hear it, but not every squeak requires service. One of the most common sources is a little problem we call “morning squeak.” We all have it from time to time—it can happen after a wet and rainy storm or a particularly dewy morning.

Basically, water vapor in the air condenses on your brake rotors and creates a thin layer of rust. The first few times you apply your brakes, you’ll hear a squeal as the calipers scrape the rust from the wet rotors. It’s harmless, though you can avoid it by keeping your car in a dry environment.  

Listen! Does that ringing sound louder, more distinct? Then you’re not out of the woods yet! Get ready to summon the (auto service) authorities to assess these possible problems…

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A Warning from Your Wear Indicator

That squeak you hear? It may mean that your car is looking out for you—a heartening sign! Many brake pads are designed with a built-in steel clip called a wear indicator. It sits near the base of the brake pad, embedded in the frictional material.

When the brake pads reach the end of their life—a natural death, we hope—these clips will be exposed. They rub against the rotors as you brake, and you’ll hear the tell-tale high-pitched squeal. When you do, it may be time to replace your brake pads. First, confirm with a visual check.

Here, here, under the spokes! Peer through the spokes in your wheels and inspect the pads themselves. Are they less than a quarter-inch thick? If so, take a deep breath and release—you’ve found the culprit.   

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It’s All Unraveling: Loose Brake Parts  

You’ve kept it together for so long and fooled so many—perhaps even yourself. Now, though, it’s clearer than ever that you have a few loose screws. We’re talking about your brake parts—specifically, the anti-rattle clips, calipers, and pad insulators.

If any of these parts are loose or broken, your brake pads may not be secured in place. They can vibrate as you brake and emit squeaking sounds. The solution is easy: Have the parts replaced and/or tightened by a trained auto technician.    

Take these wise precautions, and you’ll be singularly at ease on the streets of Huntersville, Mooresville, Lexington, and Salisbury—almost unnervingly so.

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Clear Your Conscience at Cloninger Toyota

Don’t worry; you’re not going mad. That shrieking squeal is not within your ears! In fact, your sharpened senses are your best ally when your brakes begin to squeak. 

Yes—you hear! You suspect—you know—service is needed! Schedule brake service at Cloninger Toyota today. Our certified technicians are the team you want on the case. We’ll inspect your brakes and get to the bottom of this mystery ASAP!