When you have to stop your car at a moment’s notice, the last thing you want to hear is a high-pitched squealing sound. Not only is this unnerving to many drivers, but it also indicates that your braking system might not be performing at its best. But to determine how to fix this issue, you first need to understand how it comes about. These are some of the top reasons why your brakes are squealing and what you can do to mitigate their effects.

Hard Braking

Firstly, you might notice some squeaking if you happen to brake too hard. A car’s braking system doesn’t respond well to sudden or jerking stops. So when this happens, it puts additional strain on the brake pads, causing them to generate noise. Fortunately, you can avoid this issue by pressing the brake slowly and easing your vehicle to a stop.

High Humidity Levels

Higher amounts of humidity in the environment can also be one of the top reasons why your brakes are squealing. Brakes work by creating friction with the road. The more moisture in the air, the harder it is for your brakes to generate heat upon contact with the pavement. This can make them squeal for a short time until the morning dew evaporates away.

Low Braking Fluid

Lower amounts of braking fluid, on the other hand, can be a slightly more severe problem. Insufficient fluids mean the brake system’s components can no longer move against one another effectively. Without lubricant to facilitate the necessary movements, these pieces rub together and create a squealing or scraping sound. If you leave this issue to persist, it can even cause lasting damage to your vehicle. As such, you’ll want to check your braking fluid levels immediately if you’re experiencing persistent squealing.

Worn Brake Pads

Constant squealing could also mean that you have worn-down brake pads. These components need to be rough to create the optimal amount of friction when engaged. However, these rough edges can wear down over time and prevent them from maintaining a grip on the pavement. Worn pads could create a squealing sound since you’ll need to start pushing harder to brake. Brake pad damage can result from a variety of circumstances, so be on the lookout for factors that cause unnecessary strain. To prevent further damage to your car’s brake pads, make sure your tires are working in your favor. New tires can supply more support and limit the amount of direct impact some components have with the road. As such, at RNR Tire Express, we make it our mission to supply products that you can rely on. Our tire stores in Charleston, SC, carry thousands of tire models—each providing optimal traction and shock absorption for specific types of vehicles. We’re confident that our products can help protect your car in the future.