Why Do My Brakes Squeak Despite Good Brake Pads?

Have you ever experienced a vexing problem where your brakes are squeaking, even though you believe the pads are still in good condition? Many believe that replacing brakes with cheaper, lower-grade pads is the culprit, but the real reason might be more nuanced. Proper installation and maintenance are key.

Understanding Brake Squeak

The primary cause of brake squeak, despite good quality pads, is often attributed to improper installation. Ceramic and full-metallic pads tend to produce little to no noise because they are treated with anti-squeal coatings and undergo thorough bedding processes. However, when cheaper pads are used, they often require a different approach to avoid unwanted noise.

Proper Installation Techniques and Lubrication

One of the critical steps in preventing brake squeak is proper bedding. This process involves carefully applying the pads to the calipers and driving the car for an extended period to ensure a smooth, snug fit. Additionally, lubricating the back of the pads with a specialized ant-squeal product can significantly reduce noise. Two types of these products are liquid adhesive and ant-squeal spray, which are specifically designed for application behind the pads.

Common Installation Issues and Solutions

Another common issue is improper installation. This can include using old clips or not cleaning the contact surfaces, leading to contamination. Using brake cleaner to clean the rotors and ensuring that new clips are installed correctly can eliminate these issues. If the clips are old or loose, it can cause the pads to vibrate, leading to squeaking.

Pad-Related Problems

The most likely cause of noise is a poor pad installation job. While anyone can perform a brake job, not everyone does it correctly. Another significant factor is the fitment of newly installed brake rotors. If the rotors are not properly installed, it can contribute to noise. If the issue persists, it could be due to the back of the pad rubbing against the piston, requiring a special high-temperature silicone to prevent this. Applying this silicone between the back of the pad and the rim of the piston can resolve the problem.

Expert Insight

For those who are not mechanically inclined, using a brake noise suppression kit may be the solution. These kits typically include ant-squeal spray or liquid adhesive to be used after installation. DIY enthusiasts can apply silicone to the back of the pads where they make contact with the piston. This step often resolves the issue and prevents future noise.

A simple yet crucial step in reducing brake noise is ensuring that the pads are not touching the calipers. Misalignment of the pads can cause them to vibrate, leading to squeaking. Using new clips and proper installation techniques can help avoid this.