Arguably, your brake system is the most important safety system on your automobile. If you think about it, the ability to slow down and stop your car, truck, utility vehicle, or van is what keeps you safe when you’re behind the wheel. If your brakes are squealing each time you use them, Scotty’s Automotive warns that there is something wrong. Your brakes should be silent. They shouldn’t squeal, squeak, or grind. Let’s talk about the common reasons why brakes squeal all the time.
You Have a Wear Indicator in the Pads
Many brake pad manufacturers install an indicator in the pads that is designed to make noise when it’s time to change the pads. This noise is a squealing sound that you will hear while your vehicle is in motion. The squealing will stop when you depress the brake pedal to slow down your automobile. You may also end up with a brake light or brake pad indicator light illuminated on your dashboard.
The Brakes Are Getting Too Hot
One of the most common reasons why brakes squeal when you use them is that they are too hot. Your brakes will overheat if there is something wrong with the system, if you ride them constantly, or if you are stuck in a driving situation that requires their constant use. Overheated brakes will also smell and, if hot enough, release smoke. You are in a dangerous situation if your brakes are too hot. Stop driving.
Your Rotor Surface Is Not Correct
The brake pads press against the rotors to create the friction that is then used to stop your automobile. An easy way to understand this is the friction you created when you used your feet to stop your bicycle when you were a kid. About every 60,000 miles, the rotors must be resurfaced or cut so they continue to help generate friction. If the rotor surface cut is incorrect, your brakes will squeal when you use them.
There’s No Pad Insulation
Brake pads have insulation specifically designed to prevent them from squealing. If you just had your brake pads changed and they’ve been squealing ever since, chances are the pad insulation was not installed during the service. It’s important to make sure that the brake pads and the pads’ insulation are installed at the same time to make certain your brakes are silent every time you press down on the brake pedal.
Scotty’s Automotive in Montague, NJ, would be happy to inspect your brakes if they are squealing each time you use them. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
