Why Are Your Brakes Squeaking? Common Causes and When to Act

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Are those squeaky brakes driving you crazy every time you stop?

It’s more than just annoying—it could be your car’s way of telling you something needs attention.

While not every squeak is cause for alarm, some sounds should never be ignored.

Let’s dive into the most common reasons for squeaky brakes and when it’s time to act.

Moisture or Rust Build-Up
If it’s been raining or your car sat overnight, moisture can create a light layer of rust on the rotors. When you hit the brakes, the rust scrapes off, making a temporary squeaking noise. The sound should disappear after a few stops. If it doesn’t, there could be another issue at play.

Worn Brake Pads
Brake pads wear down over time, and most are designed with a small metal tab that makes a high-pitched squeal when they’re nearly done. It’s your car’s way of saying, “Time to change the pads!” If ignored, the pads can damage the rotors, leading to more expensive repairs.

Dirt and Debris in the Brakes
If you hear a grinding or squeaking sound, there might be dirt or debris caught between the brake components. This is more common if you’ve been driving on gravel roads or in dusty areas. A quick clean by a mechanic can usually solve the issue.

Glazed Pads or Rotors
Braking too hard or riding the brakes can overheat the pads and rotors, creating a smooth, glazed surface that makes them squeak. This isn’t just noisy—it can reduce braking performance. If this happens, the pads or rotors will need to be replaced or resurfaced.

Lack of Lubrication
The moving parts of your brakes need lubrication to prevent unnecessary friction. If the callipers or pad backs dry out, they can cause a squeaking noise. A mechanic can apply the right grease to keep everything running smoothly.

When Should You Act?

Some brake noises are harmless, like the occasional squeak from moisture, but others shouldn’t be ignored.

If the noise gets louder, happens every time you brake, or doesn’t go away after a few stops, it’s time to take action.

Ignoring these sounds can lead to more serious problems, like rotor damage or reduced braking power—and that can affect your safety.

Don’t Wait – Get Your Brakes Checked Today

If your brakes are making noise, don’t wait until it’s too late. At Keys Road Auto Service, we specialise in diagnosing and repairing brake issues, from worn pads to glazed rotors. With over 30 years of experience, our expert mechanics use top-quality parts to ensure your brakes are safe and reliable.

As a proud Repco Authorised Service Centre, we deliver the highest standard of care. Located in Cheltenham, Victoria, we offer competitive pricing and even provide courtesy cars so you can stay on the move while we work on your vehicle.

Don’t risk your safety or more expensive repairs. Get peace of mind knowing your car is in expert hands—book your brake check now!

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