Squeaking is a sound vibration that occurs when the pad contacts the brake disc. It can be caused by various reasons - both technical and operational. And it's not only about old parts, but also about new brake pads, especially in the first days after replacement.

Main causes of squeaking in new pads

1. Bedding-in of new pads After installation, the pads need to bed in against the brake disc surface. This usually takes 200-300 km of driving. During this period, new pads may squeak, especially during light braking. This is normal if the sound disappears after a few days. 2. Low-quality materials If you installed cheap or counterfeit brake pads, the squeaking may be caused by the use of hard, low-quality friction linings. Such pads not only make noise but also wear out the brake disc faster. 3. Missing anti-squeal shims Some pads come with special metal plates that absorb vibrations. If they are absent, the pads squeal during braking, especially at the start of movement or after warming up. 4. Surface contamination Dust, dirt, or moisture that gets on the pads and disc can cause a characteristic sound during braking. This is especially noticeable after washing the car or driving in the rain.

Why pads squeal after replacement

1. Incorrect installation If the pads are installed with misalignment or not properly secured in the guides, this can cause uneven contact with the disc. The result is squeaking and increased wear. 2. Worn brake discs Even new pads cannot work silently if the disc already has deep grooves or unevenness. In this case, squeaking is a result of friction on an uneven surface. 3. Insufficient lubrication of guides When installing new pads, it is important to properly treat the caliper guides with special grease. Lack of lubrication leads to pad sticking and produces sounds during braking.

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Why rear pads squeal

Rear brakes may squeal more often than front ones, especially if the car rarely brakes with the rear wheels (for example, in city driving). The reasons can be the same:
  • dirt and rust on the surface;
  • lack of lubrication;
  • incorrect installation;
  • low-quality pads.
Squeaking is especially characteristic when reversing or with light pedal pressure.

Additional reasons why pads squeal on a car

1. Overheating of the brake system If you braked aggressively or drove downhill for a long time, the brakes may have overheated. This can cause a temporary change in the structure of the friction material and the appearance of squeaking. 2. Use of sport pads Some manufacturers produce pads with a high friction coefficient designed for a sporty driving style. They may squeal in normal conditions. 3. Moisture and rust Overnight, condensation and a light layer of rust can form on the brake discs. The first braking in the morning is accompanied by a characteristic sound that quickly disappears.

What to do if brake pads squeal

If brake pads squeal, there is no need to panic immediately. It is important to determine how long the squeaking lasts and under what conditions it appears. Here is what you can do:
  • Give the pads time to bed in for 2-3 days if they are new.
  • Check whether anti-squeal shims are used.
  • Inspect the condition of the discs - check for grooves and ridges.
  • Make sure the caliper guides are lubricated.
  • Try replacing the pads with higher-quality ones (preferably with ceramic linings).
If the squeaking does not go away, it is better to contact a service center so that a specialist can check the correctness of installation and the condition of all brake system components.
Now you know why pads squeal during braking, especially if these are new brake pads or the replacement was recent. Most often this is related to bedding-in or minor installation issues. But if the sound persists for a long time or is accompanied by vibration and worsening braking, it is worth conducting diagnostics immediately. Remember: the brake system is one of the most important safety components on the road.