Do Your Brakes Squeak or Grind? This Could Be the Reason Why!

Your braking system is essential to the safety and performance of your vehicle, no matter when or where you’re driving. Even small problems with the braking system can result in significant issues with vehicle efficiency, performance and safety on the road, so it’s important to be aware of signs of malfunctioning brakes and handle problems as proactively as possible. If you’re dealing with squeaking or grinding brakes, keep reading for some advice from a mechanic in Everett, WA.

Causes of grinding and squeaking noises

Brake issues can show up in vehicles of any make, model or year. Even newer vehicles may be susceptible to brake issues, depending on driving conditions, driving habits and other factors that accelerate wear and tear. The most common signs of braking problems, aside from changes to car performance while driving, are grinding and squeaking noises. Here are a few of the most common causes of grinding or squeaking brakes:

• Worn brake pads: One of the most common causes of noisy brakes is brake pad wear and tear. As brake pads wear down, the backing plate is exposed and starts to make a grinding or squeaking noise when it comes into contact with the rotor or drum. This noise happens by design to let drivers know when it’s time to replace brake pads before there are any serious safety risks on the road.
• Low-quality brakes: There are lots of different brakes on the market, and not all of them offer the same level of quality, longevity or performance. Sometimes, grinding and squealing noises are simply caused by low-quality brake pads that are causing friction with brake rotors. The solution to this issue is to replace the brakes with newer, higher-quality brake pads. While quality brake pads are more expensive, they are also much better when it comes to performance and safety.
• Glazed rotors: Sometimes, brake problems are caused by problems with the rotors and not the brake pads. Over time, rotors can develop a rough or glazed surface that creates abnormal contact with brake pads and leads to a squealing or grinding noise while braking. This problem can usually be solved by machining the rotors to improve the finish, but it’s also possible that you’ll need to invest in rotor replacement.
• Trapped debris: It’s possible that the squealing or grinding noise coming from your brakes is caused by debris trapped in the system. Check your brakes to see if there is any debris that can be removed. If you are unable to remove this debris yourself, a mechanic who offers car repair in Everett, WA will be able to help.

Get brake repair in Everett, WA

If you need help with brake repairs or other types of car repair in Everett, WA, reach out to Auto Truck Service Inc. We have decades of experience providing comprehensive repair services for cars, trucks, commercial vans and fleet vehicles alike. As a locally-owned and family-operated company, we are committed to providing the highest quality of services to our customers. Schedule an appointment and find out more about what we have to offer by giving us a call today.

Categorised in: Car Repairs