Squeaky Brakes

**state09** · 03-18-2008, 01:59 PM

I have a major problem with my brakes squeaking whenever I apply them. It has been a problem ever since I put new brake pads on over a year ago. I have since replaced those pads and these are just as bad.

I know that they are starting to put more metal in the pads, which causes them to squeak more, but does anyone have ANY suggestions! I am desperate at this point because it is extremely loud and annoying. Every time I stop, everyone looks at me like my car is going to fall apart.

I would appreciate ANY suggestions. Thanks!

**clones_jer** · 03-18-2008, 02:01 PM

I have a freakin pile a work car (stupid neon) that does that too, it has brand new brakes and they tell me nothing is wrong but it sucks ... even worse when its raining or humid out.

**state09** · 03-18-2008, 02:02 PM

Originally Posted by clones_jer

I have a freakin pile a work car (stupid neon) that does that too, it has brand new brakes and they tell me nothing is wrong but it sucks ... even worse when its raining or humid out.

I have had a few people tell me that there are some cars that just do it, but there HAS to be something that will at least help it.

**psycln11** · 03-18-2008, 02:04 PM

I've heard or read that bad calipers can also lead to squeaking.

**Jerry1982** · 03-18-2008, 02:19 PM

Well, you could try rotors. When you buy the rotors try and match them to your new pads. Yes, start over with new pads.

**ffelknirznarf** · 03-18-2008, 02:40 PM

Apply WD-40

**Me State** · 03-18-2008, 02:43 PM

Originally Posted by ffelknirznarf

Apply WD-40

They probably won't make noise but the load bang that comes next will be worse.

**jumbopackage** · 03-18-2008, 02:43 PM

Originally Posted by clones_jer

I have a freakin pile a work car (stupid neon) that does that too, it has brand new brakes and they tell me nothing is wrong but it sucks ... even worse when its raining or humid out.

Neons are famous for this. My girlfriend's does it all the time.

Originally Posted by ffelknirznarf

Apply WD-40

I wouldn't suggest this.

You might have glazed rotors. You could try having them turned, or replaced. If you replace the rotors and pads and still have noise, I've got no idea.

**Cy Heavy** · 03-18-2008, 02:48 PM

If you live in Ames take it to Magic Muffler and Brakes. Doug (owner) is a straight-up guy and won't try to sell you any crap you don't need. I drive up there from Des Moines if my car needs anything more than an oil change b/c I like them so much.

**state09** · 03-18-2008, 02:53 PM

Originally Posted by Cy Heavy

If you live in Ames take it to Magic Muffler and Brakes. Doug (owner) is a straight-up guy and won't try to sell you any crap you don't need. I drive up there from Des Moines if my car needs anything more than an oil change b/c I like them so much.

I do live in Ames so I will have to check them out. Thanks for the suggestions!

**djcubby** · 03-18-2008, 02:55 PM

If you see your front wheels getting dirty quickly, that means that you probably have an inexpensive brake pad. Try using a more expensive ceramic pad. They create less dust, which will get rid of some of the noise, and also last longer. Also, there is a anti-noise gel that you can put on the back of the pad which might help.

**redrocker** · 03-18-2008, 03:40 PM

The only brake pads to buy are the Wagner Thermal Quiet. They are expensive pads, but worth it. I just put new pads and rotars on last weekend. They are sweet. (yes I did the work myself)

**ISU4ME** · 03-18-2008, 03:42 PM

Originally Posted by state09

I do live in Ames so I will have to check them out. Thanks for the suggestions!

Freedom Tire on South Duff (just south of Lowes) is also an honest place. I have used them over the past 10 years. I took my wife's car in there when it had 60K miles and asked them to do a tune up and change the oil. I picked it up and the mechanic came out and said he did not complete the tune up as it was unnecessary at 60K miles. Car is still running great at 137K miles (third car used for commuting).

**Cyclonesrule91** · 03-18-2008, 03:51 PM

When you got the new brake pads put on did they turn the rotors or replace them. If they didn't there might be deep enough grooves that will chew up the pads a whole lot faster then normal. Otherwise, if there is plenty of pad left, you either have a lot of dust, or gravel that is causing it or you might even want to check your wheel bearings to make sure they are fine. Usually they squeak by design when you are getting down to the end of your brake pad because there is a piece of iron that sticks out 1/4" or so they will squeal so you replace the pads before you destroy the rotor by stopping with metal on metal. My motorcycle used to squeak when I applied the brakes especially when it was warm and humid and I would just hold the front brake while going down the road(not on loose gravel or sandy paved roads either) to wear part of the pad off and then it would quit for awhile. I think that was a case of cheap pads though

**state09** · 03-18-2008, 03:55 PM

Originally Posted by Cyclonesrule91

When you got the new brake pads put on did they turn the rotors or replace them. If they didn't there might be deep enough grooves that will chew up the pads a whole lot faster then normal. Otherwise, if there is plenty of pad left, you either have a lot of dust, or gravel that is causing it or you might even want to check your wheel bearings to make sure they are fine. Usually they squeak by design when you are getting down to the end of your brake pad because there is a piece of iron that sticks out 1/4" or so they will squeal so you replace the pads before you destroy the rotor by stopping with metal on metal. My motorcycle used to squeak when I applied the brakes especially when it was warm and humid and I would just hold the front brake while going down the road(not on loose gravel or sandy paved roads either) to wear part of the pad off and then it would quit for awhile. I think that was a case of cheap pads though

When I had the pads replaced the 2nd time, the rotors were also checked and they said they were fine. I am thinking I am just going to have to buy some "disc brake quiet" and if that doesn't help check out one of the Ames places again.