You don’t need us to tell you that your brakes shouldn’t squeal all the time. If they are squealing constantly, there is a problem with your brake system. Crossroads Automotive can inspect the system to find out why your brakes make noise. There are some common reasons why brakes squeal constantly. Here is what they are for your information.
Clips
There are clips that are called anti-rattle clips on each wheel. These clips hold the brake pads and the pad stays to the calipers. Without these clips, the pads and stays would vibrate every time you press down on the brake pedal. When this happens, your brakes squeal. As such, it’s reasonable to conclude that the reason why your brakes are squealing all the time could be that one or more of the anti-rattle clips have broken.
Brake Pads
The brake pads can also make your brakes squeal constantly. When these pads get too low, there is an indicator embedded in them to make noise while you are driving. This noise will stop once you apply the brakes. This indicator will also turn on the pad replacement or brake light on your vehicle’s dashboard. Even if your brake pads do not have this indicator, they will squeal and grind if they are too low.
Pad Insulation
You have a brake pad on every wheel and each pad is insulated. As with the anti-rattle clips, the brake pad insulation is designed to prevent the brakes from squealing all the time. If you don’t have any pad insulation, which can happen if a mechanic doesn’t replace it when he or she replaces the brake pads, your brakes will squeal constantly until you get the insulation installed.
Overheating
Your brakes could also be squealing because they are overheating. Overheating brakes are dangerous because, eventually, you will be unable to stop your automobile. If the squealing noises that you hear are accompanied by hot odors, pull over and find a safe place to park your vehicle. Call for a tow truck to have it towed to our shop. It is not safe to drive an automobile with overheating brakes.
Rotors
Finally, the brake pads press against the rotors to create kinetic energy. After millions of revolutions, the rotor surfaces smooth out. This will make your brakes squeal every time you use them. Re-cutting the rotor surfaces will solve the problem.
Again, Crossroads Automotive in Topeka, KS, can get to the bottom of the reason why your brakes are squealing constantly. Call us today to set up an appointment.