by Brake discs are an essential component of modern disc brake systems in vehicles. It is a metallic (most often cast iron) disc with a hole in the middle, which is rigidly attached to the wheel hub and rotates with it when in motion. The main purpose of the elements is to serve as a friction pair for the brake pads during braking. When the pedal is pressed, the caliper – a movable bracket with pads – compresses. The pads press tightly against the disc, preventing its rotation through friction. The kinetic energy of the movement is converted into heat, and the car slows down.
Causes of disc brake squeaking
Brake squeaking is a common problem that can be a signal to car owners that it is time to order brake discs to replace worn components. There are several most typical reasons for the emergence of unpleasant sounds during braking:
- Natural vibrations in the brake system. With sharp decelerations, uneven adhesion of pads to discs occurs, which causes slight oscillations and squeaking. Usually, this is a safe phenomenon that does not require intervention.
- Installation of new brake pads. Due to the mismatch of the roughness of the surfaces of new pads and already worn discs, a characteristic squeaking sound occurs. Over time, the parts wear in, and the sound disappears.
- Incompatibility of materials. For example, installing metal-ceramic linings on cast iron discs often leads to squeaking.
- Overheating of products during intense braking. Partial melting of the friction layer occurs, leaving roughness on rubbing surfaces.
- Lack of proper lubrication in moving parts (guide pins, brackets, etc.) leads to dry metal-on-metal friction.
- Ingress of dirt, water, small stones into the system causes vibration.
- Complete wear of pads or appearance of cracks on the disc surface requires mandatory timely replacement.
How to get rid of squeaking
To get rid of the unpleasant sound, you need to determine its possible cause and then take appropriate action. In many cases, bleeding the brake system to remove air is sufficient. If the cause is the installation of new consumables, then after they have worn in, the squeaking should disappear. In case of severe overheating or lack of lubrication, disassembly of the mechanism, cleaning, and lubrication renewal will help. Sometimes squeaking may indicate a more serious problem – severe wear or deformation of components. Timely replacement of worn brake system parts is the key to road safety.
