There is something wrong if your brakes squeal all the time. Anderson Automotive advises that when you apply the brakes, the only thing you should hear is your automobile slowing down. You shouldn’t hear squealing, squeaking, or grinding. If your brakes squeal constantly, they are overdue for service and might possibly need to be repaired. Because this is the most important safety system on your automobile, it’s important to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.
1. Broken Anti-Rattle Clips
One reason why your brakes squeal all the time could be that you have broken anti-rattle clips. These clips secure the brake pads to the calipers and they are designed to prevent the pads from vibrating when you apply the brakes. If one or more of the clips have broken, the brake pad will vibrate and squeal. These clips generally only need to be replaced if they have broken.
2. Glazed Brake Pads/Rotors
Another problem that causes your brakes to squeal all the time is glazed brake pads. When the brake pads are glazed, the rotors might glaze, as well. Glazing means the surfaces have smoothed out because the brakes are overheating. If your brakes are squealing and you smell hot odors when you apply the brakes, stop driving your automobile. Overheated brakes can fail.
3. Missing Pad Insulation
Aside from the clips mentioned above, the brake pads are also insulated to make sure they don’t squeal. When the brake pads get changed because their surfaces are too low, the insulation should be changed at the same time. If the mechanic forgot to install the insulation, you will end up with squealing brakes. Installing the insulation will stop the problem.
4. Smooth Rotor Surfaces
We mentioned above that the rotor surfaces can smooth out when the brakes are overheating. They also smooth out eventually due to pressure from the brake pads. The rotor surfaces need to be recut once they are smooth. Generally, this service is recommended every 60,000 miles.
5. Worn Brake Pads
Finally, your brake pads may have low pad indicators inside of them that are designed to make noise once the pads have worn down to the indicators. This can make the brakes squeal when you apply the brakes or while you are driving your automobile. These indicators are designed to alert you that it is time to change your brake pads.
We can do that here at Anderson Automotive in Marion, IA, so give us a call today. In fact, we can repair any problem your brake system might have.