How to Stop Brake Noise

Most drivers recognize that familiar noise when they hear it. Squealing brakes have driven us all crazy at some point. The squealing and squeaking do not necessarily signal failing brakes or any other problem, though it is wise to check them early to determine the source of the noise. There are a few methods you can try, depending on your car and brake type, in order to rid yourself of this annoying noise.

Instructions

1

Park the vehicle on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake.

2

Lift up the entire problem wheel mechanism with a hydraulic floor jack. Use a jack stand for more support. Loosen the lug nuts with a breaker bar and socket to take off the wheel.

3

Separate the caliper from the rotor with an Allen wrench. Use an Allen head socket to remove the two bolts on the back side of the caliper that hold it in place. Apply brake cleaner to the part and wipe it down with a WD-40-soaked rag. Oiling and cleaning the mechanism alone can eliminate squealing.

4

Separate the caliper from the rotor and extract the two brake pads from within. Check each pad for signs of warping or scarring which would necessitate replacing the pads to end squealing. Repeat the cleaning regimen on the inside of the caliper.

5

Check the rotor for signs of wear. Small furrows on the rotor may be the cause of brake squealing. If the rotor shows warping, they may need to be replaced.

6

Push a plastic tube over the caliper's bleeder fitting. Put the tube's other end into a cup of brake fluid. Loosen the valve by turning it to the left. Ask a friend to press down on the brake pedal at the same time. Tighten the valve while the pedal is still depressed. This will force brake fluid into the cup and push air out to improve brake function.

7

Refill the brake fluid in the master cylinder. Reassemble the tire and lower the car.