We’ve all heard cars that come screeching to a halt every time they pull up to a stoplight. Needless to say, that high-pitched squealing noise isn’t normal! Though squeaky brakes can work just as well as quiet ones, that noise shouldn’t be ignored. This post will cover everything you need to know about squeaking brakes and how they relate to brake repair in Madison, TN.
What causes squeaky brakes?
There are actually a few reasons why your brakes might squeal while you’re coming to a stop, some of which are more severe than others. If you only hear the squealing noise on your morning commute, there’s likely no need for concern. This squealing occurs because there’s a fine layer of dew on the pad that developed overnight.
If you hear the squeal all day long, your brake pad is most likely just wearing down. Brake pads are designed to start squealing as they get worn down as an indicator that it’s time to have them replaced. This squealing noise probably won’t go away anytime soon, so it’s a good idea to replace the pads as soon as you can.
An unevenly worn rotor might also cause a squealing noise, as would loose brake pads and corroded components within the braking system. Only a certified mechanic will know for sure what the true cause of the squealing is.
How can the squeak be stopped?
The good news is that fixing squeaking or squealing brakes isn’t all that hard to do. Unless there’s a deeper issue with the rotor, replacing the brake pad should stop the noise. While you’re getting new pads, you may want to consider upgrading to a higher-end product. Though they may cost a bit more, ceramic or premium metallic brake pads will last longer before wearing down and squealing again.
Although you could potentially replace your brake pads by yourself, we always recommend bringing your vehicle to a pro instead. Your mechanic will properly replace your pads and check to ensure that your vehicle doesn’t require any extensive brake repair in Madison, TN.
Along with replacing your brake pads more frequently, you can help prevent squealing by applying anti-squeal adhesive to the pads. Before applying the solution, just be sure your brakes are clean and free of any rust or corrosion.
Be sure to act quickly!
Just as with any car problem, it’s best to address squealing brakes as soon as you notice them. The longer you drive on worn-down pads, the less responsive your brakes will become. Less-responsive brakes can be a danger to you and every driver out on the road. You’ll know you’re in trouble if the squealing sound turns into a loud grinding noise. If that’s the case, bring your car into a mechanic as soon as possible, as brake failure is imminent.
If your brakes are loud or if you’re experiencing any other brake issues, come to Madison Muffler & Auto Repair. We’re the best in town when it comes to brake repair in Madison, TN! Regardless of your car’s make or model, we’ll diagnose the problem and fix it right away.