Why Are My Brakes Squeaking? Causes and Fixes

If you've ever been driving around Clinton or Layton, UT, and heard an irritating squeak every time you hit the brakes, you're not alone. This is a fairly common issue that many drivers experience, and it's one that we frequently address at our brake shop. But what causes this annoying sound, and more importantly, how can we fix it? Let's delve into this matter.

Common Causes of Squeaky Brakes

Squeaky brakes can be caused by several factors. The most common include:

1. Worn Brake Pads: Over time, your brake pads will wear down. When they become too thin, they start to make a squeaking or squealing noise. This is a warning sign that you need to replace your brake pads soon to prevent further damage to your braking system.

2. Glazed Pads and Rotors: If your brakes overheat, the heat can cause the brake pads and rotors to harden and crystallize, or "glaze." Glazed pads and rotors are less effective at stopping your vehicle and often create a squeaking sound.

3. Poor Quality Brake Pads: Not all brake pads are created equal. Some cheaper, lower-quality options can be noisy or may not perform as well as their higher-quality counterparts.

4. Rusty Rotors: If you don't drive your vehicle very often, rust can form on the brake rotors. When the brake pads press against the rusted surface of the rotor, you might hear a squeaking sound.

How to Fix Squeaky Brakes

Now that we've identified some common causes of squeaky brakes, let's look at how to fix them. If you're looking for reliable brake repair near Clinton or Layton, UT, our team is here to help.

1. Replace Worn Brake Pads: If your brake pads are worn out, replacing them is the best solution. This will not only eliminate the squeaking sound but also ensure that your vehicle can stop properly when you need it to.

2. Address Overheating Issues: If glazed pads and rotors are causing your brakes to squeak, it's important to address the underlying issue causing your brakes to overheat. This could be anything from aggressive driving habits to a malfunctioning component in the braking system.

3. Upgrade Your Brake Pads: If poor-quality brake pads are causing the noise, consider upgrading to a higher-quality option. While these may cost a bit more upfront, they'll likely perform better and make less noise in the long run.

4. Remove Rust from Rotors: If rust is causing your brakes to squeak, the rotors can be resurfaced or replaced to eliminate the noise.

At Lynn Wood Service Center, we understand how crucial your braking system is to your safety on the road. That's why we're committed to providing top-notch brake repair services near Clinton and Layton, UT. Whether you're dealing with squeaky brakes or any other brake-related issue, our team of experienced technicians is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your brakes back in tip-top shape.