Squeaky brakes are one of the first signs that you need to replace your brakes. But it doesn’t mean you always have the same problem when your brakes start making that noise.
As soon as you hear squealing brakes at low-speed driving, you’ll want to do some investigating. Brake issues are not something you want to put off fixing. The quicker you can get a solution, the more safe you’ll be driving around town.
Knowing what to look for in your brakes can make this process much easier. Check out this guide for ways to fix squeaky brakes in your car.
1. Clean the Braking System
Before you do anything crazy like get all-new brakes, it’s a good idea to start with cleaning the system. Underneath cars are notorious for gathering dust, grime, and road debris. The brakes can often get clogged until they start making weird noises.
Getting the brakes really clean will also help you see if there are any other problems you’re missing.
2. Change the Brake Pads
One of the most common culprits for braking issues is the pads. These sit between the caliper and rotor to create friction.
Controlling the friction is key to keeping the parts intact to do their job. But the pads will wear down over time. It’s important to have them changed as part of your regular maintenance to avoid issues.
3. Check Calipers for Damage
Sometimes you may think it’s the pads but once you take a look you see that the calipers are actually damaged. These are the parts that clamp down on the rotors to stop the vehicle. If they get out of alignment or stick due to corrosion, they’re not going to be able to do their job.
A visual inspection will usually show if there’s anything out of the ordinary.
4. Look for Rust on the Brake Parts
Another thing a visual inspection can uncover is rust on your brake parts. This buildup can keep the parts from moving freely as they need to. Sometimes, you can do the brake repairs by cleaning the rust off. Other times you’ll have to replace them if the rust has sunk in too deep.
5. Get a Brake Inspection
There are a lot of possible issues your brakes could be facing. It can be difficult to narrow down where the real problem is coming from without the right training.
Even if you think you know the answer, it’s a good idea to get a professional brake inspection to know everything is exactly how it should be.
Fixing Squealing Brakes at Low-Speed Driving
Squealing brakes at low-speed driving can be really unnerving. Especially when you don’t know what’s going on. It can make any driving experience much more stressful than it needs to be.
No matter what types of brakes you have or what the issue is, it’s always a good idea to take your car in to see a professional. Keep in mind that they may not be able to completely resolve the issue without being able to hear the noise on a road test.
RNS Service Inc. has a team full of mechanics ready to help you work through all your car needs. We can handle everything from maintenance to major repairs on all kinds of vehicles. Schedule an appointment today to get back on the road confidently!
Owen Stoller is a third-generation member of the Stoller family and serves as a Service Advisor at RNS Service in Orrville, Ohio. Carrying on a family tradition that began in 1977, Owen is committed to helping customers make informed decisions about their vehicles through honest communication, technical expertise, and a genuine commitment to their safety.
With five years of professional automotive experience, Owen has earned Master ASE Certification, including the prestigious ASE C1 Service Consultant certification. His combination of technical knowledge and customer service expertise allows him to bridge the gap between the repair shop and the vehicle owner, ensuring every customer understands their vehicle's needs and can make confident maintenance and repair decisions.
Owen earned his bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management from The University of Akron, bringing a strong foundation in operations, organization, and problem-solving to the family business. He is passionate about continuous learning and regularly studies leadership to better serve both the RNS Service team and the customers who rely on them.
As the grandson of RNS Service founder Bob Stoller and the son of Jeff Stoller, Owen is proud to continue the values that have defined the business for nearly 50 years: integrity, quality workmanship, and treating every customer like family. He believes that auto repair is about more than fixing vehicles—it's about building lasting relationships based on trust and helping keep families safe on the road.
Outside the shop, Owen has been married to his wife, Carissa, for five years, and together they are raising their three children, Tucker, Wesley, and their youngest. Family life keeps him busy, whether he's hobby farming, making maple syrup, dreaming up new projects and ideas, or simply spending time with his children. Those same values of hard work, stewardship, and community continue to shape the way he serves customers every day at RNS Service.