Why Your Brand New Brake Pads Are Still Squeaking?

squeaking brake pad

Of course, the most common reason for squeaking brakes is worn brake pads. They are actually designed to squeak. As they wear out, the pad reveals a metal tab that rubs against the rotor and makes a squeaking noise. So hearing this noise simply means that it’s time for a change of brake pad.

But how to explain that you still get a squeaking sound on a brand new set of brake pads?

Rusty Rotor

Your brake rotor will often rust after a humid or rainy day. This is okay as long as you frequently use your car. As the brake pads rub against the rotors, it will remove that thin layer of rust. But while doing that it will create a squeaking noise. So if after a rainy day you hear that squeaking sound (especially in the morning) it is normal.

If your car sits for a long period of time, you may accumulate a big amount of rust. In this case, you will need to get your rotor turned to remove that accumulated rust.

Dirt Or Debris Between The Pad And The Rotor

If you like to go offroad, you may accumulate a lot of dirt and debris on your wheels. One common issue is having that dirt stuck between the pad and the rotor. It will rub against the rotor and make that squealing sound.

To fix the problem, spray a cleaner or sand down your rotor and your pad to fix the problem.

Your Braking Style!

That’s right, you read that right!

If you’re someone very aggressive on your brakes, you may get them to overheat. Especially when going downhill. As the temperature of the rotors rises, it forms a shiny glaze on the surface of the brake rotors. When your brakes are glazed they lose friction and are less efficient at stopping your car. 

To fix this problem, you need to sand down the rotor or get it turned to clean the surface of the rotor. You need to sand the brake pad as well. Use 60 grit sand better for the best and fastest job.

Note that if your brake rotors are glazed, have a closer look at your brake. If one of your pad get stuck on the rotor, it is constantly in friction with the rotor. This is how it can then overheat and glaze.

So after sanding your rotors and brake pads, recheck your brake and make sure there is no constant contact on your rotor.

Why Your Brakes Are Grinding?

This is actually a big issue. When you hear a grinding noise, it usually means that a metal part is touching the rotor. In this case, check your brake rotor very closely. It can be the dust shield touching the rotor or something else. In case of doubt, it is better to get your car checked by a professional.

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