Why do brakes squeak with new pads?
Almost like nails on a chalkboard, the squeaking of new brake pads on a car or truck can be nerve-wracking, and there are a few causes. Some of them are solvable, but some are not.Problems with PadsSome brake components might need to be bent or hammered to hold the pad to the caliper more securely, but if this is not the problem, shims can be installed behind the pad to absorb vibrations. According to AOL automotive expert Tom Torbjornsen, a mechanic should do much of this automatically or fix at no charge.Caliper IssuesThe calipers operate like a small, hydraulic clamp on your brakes, with pistons on either side of the U-shaped part, and if these pistons are worn, loose or insufficiently lubricated, they can cause additional vibrations which can cause the troublesome noise.Brake Rotor SurfaceRough or glazed rotors (from previous overheating of the brakes) can create noise, as the brakes can’t grab onto a smooth surface, according to Torbjornsen. Rotors can be resurfaced or replaced.Dr