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!