You’re slowing down at the traffic lights, but instead of coming to a gentle stop, you notice your car brakes squeaking and screaming their way to a shuddering halt. That screeching sound isn’t just embarrassing; it can be a warning sign that your brake pads need changing.
How do car brakes work?
Brakes perform a critical safety function for your vehicle, allowing you to decelerate to avoid or minimise impact in an emergency situation. When you press down on the brake pedal, a signal is sent to your brake callipers, which in turn cause brake pads to clamp down on your vehicle’s rotors. This combination of pressure and friction slows down your vehicle’s momentum.
Learn what to do if your brakes are stiff and the car won’t start.
So what’s that sound?
Over time, the friction required to slow your vehicle down will degrade the various components of your brake system. Different parts of a vehicle’s brake system have different lifespans, but if you’ve just started to notice your car brakes squealing, it’s likely that your brake pads have worn down. Worn brake pads result in metal-on-metal friction between callipers and rotors, emitting a high-pitched squeal or squeak that is music to precisely nobody’s ears!
It’s all about safety
Worn brake pads increase the time it takes for you to stop your vehicle, both in everyday driving and in emergency situations where mere seconds can make the difference between a close shave and a fatality. Ignoring the early warning sign of your car brakes squeaking can also lead to costly damage to other integral parts of your brake system. We recommend regular servicing to keep your brakes in good condition; if your car makes a weird noise when braking, bring it immediately before your safety is further compromised.
Caring for your brake pads
Generally speaking, brake pads should last you tens of thousands of kilometres. If you’re regularly driving in stop-start traffic or tend to ‘ride’ your brakes quite frequently, you may find that your brake pads wear out faster. Driving style, road conditions and the weight of a vehicle also contribute to the duration of brake pads. Take care of your car’s braking system by thinking about ways to minimise the build-up of unnecessary friction (and therefore heat) – for example, using a low gear when descending a steep hill can assist in slowing your momentum.
We’ll fix those squeaky car brakes
Wondering how to stop your car brakes squeaking? As leading technicians who specialise in prestige European car servicing and repairs, Cox Auto’s commitment to providing a premium service extends to brake servicing.
Using the latest diagnostic equipment, our experienced technicians will conduct a comprehensive inspection of your car’s braking system components and can advise you on any necessary repairs or service items, ensuring the best possible car performance and safety. We only use the most trusted brands, such as Bendix, for parts and all our work is backed by a 12-month or 20,000km guarantee.
And as an official A.T.E Brake Centre, we offer high-quality, dustless ceramic brakes along with a 50,000km wear warranty. We also test and repair shock absorbers, in addition to carrying out brake fluid flushing of the entire braking hydraulic system, including the ABS controller pump.
Our specialist technicians provide the highest quality workmanship and customer service for all your brake servicing needs. As soon as you notice any warning signs that your brakes might be in need of repair or replacement, book an appointment or call the workshop today on 03 9699 6338. We will assess the condition of your brakes and provide you honest, reliable advice on the best course of action, ensuring that you no longer need to worry about your car brakes squeaking.
