What’s That Squealing Sound?
Don’t neglect the most important safety feature on your vehicle.
What is a Squealer?
Noisy brakes are trying to tell you something…you should listen. You may have heard of brake “squealers” before? They are a simple mechanical mechanism that many (not all) manufacturers build into the brake pad. When squealers are present, they are meant as an audible early warning system to alert you of worn out brake pads or shoes before the situation turns into a metal-to-metal contact scenario. Such a scenario can severely inhibit stopping potential and lead to a total failure of the braking system, so don’t wait to hear them before you get your brakes checked.
Squealing may also be caused by stones or small particulates getting lodged between the brake pads and the brake rotor, this usually sorts itself out after a bit of time. Another cause is often observed when a vehicle sits long enough for a thin layer of corrosion to form on the rotor surface. Brake pads will often squeal as they wear off the corrosion layer.
Don’t Neglect Your Brakes
Brakes are a critical safety feature and control mechanism that require an amount of care and attention equal to their importance. Fall and Spring are great times to fully inspect the entire system as this usually coincides with seasonal tire changeovers. Twice-annual inspections allow for documented monitoring and measuring of brake wear. This provides owners with the ability to predict when the next brake service is needed and allows for budget planning on a mandatory maintenance item.
A twice-annual inspection frequency also allows for quick corrective action to be taken if uneven brake wear is detected. This will help to extend brake life and prevent a chain reaction of more costly repairs from piling on. Examples of additional problems are rotor and drum scoring, warping, pad sheer, cracking, metal fatigue, and suspension issues.
Preventative Maintenance
Vehicle owners often overlook the importance of servicing and lubricating the calipers and pads. This helps to diminish noise, seized caliper pins and pads and uneven wear, or help correct uneven wear. Lubrication greatly extends the service-life of braking components.
As a matter of good stewardship and preventative maintenance – your automotive repair shop should perform some quick checks and visual inspections during every visit – this will help to identify any potential issues and mitigate more costly repairs or future breakdowns.
The professional team at the Auto Connection – Auto Care Service Centre is a trusted, SGI accredited, full-service repair shop. Our knowledgeable service advisors are ready to assist you with whatever your ride needs. Call us today: 306-373-8800 opt.2
