Car trouble · Brakes

My brakes squeal

A high-pitched squeal when you brake is often the built-in wear warning telling you the pads are getting low.

Get to it this week

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

  1. Brake pads worn to the wear indicator

    most likely · Doable with tools and a free afternoon

    How to check: If the squeal happens every time you brake and has been getting steadier, look through the wheel at the pads. Thin pads mean the small metal tab is touching the rotor on purpose.

  2. Glazed pads or missing anti-squeal grease

    possible · Doable with tools and a free afternoon

    How to check: If the pads look thick but the squeal started after a brake job, the pads may be glazed or the backs of the pads may be missing grease.

  3. Light surface rust after rain or a damp night

    less likely · Most people can do this

    How to check: If it only squeals for the first few stops in the morning and then goes quiet, it is usually harmless surface rust on the rotors.

Be careful

Don’t blow brake dust off with compressed air or breathe it in — wet it down with brake cleaner and wipe it away. Never get under a car held up only by a jack — set it on jack stands on flat, solid ground and chock the wheels that stay down.

Your car — the counter needs this

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My brakes are grindingMy brake pedal feels soft or spongyMy steering wheel shakes when I brakeMy car pulls to one side when I brake
My brakes squeal — likely causes and the parts · DriverRuns