Why Are My Brakes Still Squeaking After Changing Pads?

Maintenance and Repairs
1

I’ve recently changed my brake pads but I’m still hearing that annoying squeaking sound whenever I brake. It’s really perplexing! I thought replacing the pads would solve the problem, but it seems like there might be more going on.

Possible Reasons for the Squeak

  1. Improper Installation: Did I install the pads correctly? Sometimes even a slight misalignment can cause noise. It’s worth double-checking.
  2. Quality of Brake Pads: Are the new brake pads I bought of good quality? Cheap pads might save money but can cause unwanted noise.
  3. Lack of Lubrication: Did I remember to lubricate the caliper pins or backing plates? A little grease on the contact points can go a long way.
  4. Moisture or Dust: Sometimes, moisture or dust can settle on the brake pads, leading to temporary squeaking until it wears off. Has anyone else experienced this?
  5. Worn Rotors: Could my rotors also be an issue? If they’re warped or worn out, even new pads might not fix the noise.
  6. Brake Hardware: I’m thinking about the clips and shims as well. If they’re rusty or worn out, they can also cause racket.

Next Steps to Troubleshoot

  • I plan to take a closer look at my installation and make sure everything’s in place.
  • If anyone has tips or similar experiences, please share! What did you do to fix the brake squeaking, and what worked for you? Let’s figure this out together as I’m tired of hearing that sound!!
3 Likes
2

One reason your brakes might squeak after changing pads is poor installation. If the pads are not secured properly, they can vibrate and create noise.

3

I totally agree! Also, using incompatible materials can lead to squeaking. Always match your pads with the right rotors!

5 Likes
4

Don’t forget about dust and moisture! Sometimes, these can accumulate and cause brakes to squeak after a pad replacement.

5

Exactly, mfloyd! Poor installation can cause rattling, too. It might be worth having the installation checked if the squeaking persists.

6

I’ve read that some aftermarket pads are just more prone to squeaking. You might want to consider the brand you used.

7

Are there any signs of wear on your rotors? They could also be causing the new pads to squeak if they are uneven.

8

Good point! If the rotors are grooved or warped, it can definitely contribute to the issue.

9

Also, there might not be enough anti-squeal shims on the new pads. These help dampen vibrations that cause the noise.

10

Such a good point! I wonder if some people forget to replace those during installation.

7 Likes
11

Hey, has anyone considered that moisture can cause temporary squeaking? I sometimes hear that after it rains.

12

True, moisture can be a factor! But if the squeaking doesn’t go away, it’s definitely worth investigating further.

13

If I had a dollar for every time I had squeaky brakes! I’d be rich! Seriously though, it can drive you mad.

14

Right? Sometimes it feels like no matter what you do, they just keep squeaking!

15

Have you checked the brake fluid? Low fluid levels can lead to issues with braking performance, which might contribute to noise.

16

Hmm, interesting point! I’d say checking the fluid is a great call. Sometimes, people overlook the simplest solutions.

17

Finally, remember that new pads can take some time to settle in. They might stop squeaking after breaking in, but if it continues, definitely check everything out!

8 Likes
18

Squeaking brakes after changing pads can be frustrating! It’s essential to properly break in new pads by gradually increasing stopping pressure. This helps reduce the squeaking sound later on.

19

Absolutely! I’ve heard that using the right type of lubricant on the backing plate can also help. Has anyone tried specific brands?

20

I agree with you both. Another thing to consider is the condition of the rotors. If they’re worn out or uneven, no amount of breaking in will stop the squeaking.