Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?


Do you ever notice when you apply the brakes in your vehicle, they make a loud squeaking noise? If so, there are several different reasons this may be happening. Often, squeaking brakes is something that’s unavoidable and it’s not indicating anything major is wrong. Other times, it could indicate something in your vehicle’s brake system needs to be checked out.

If you’re a driver near Meridian, Philadelphia, and Laurel, MS, who’s trying to self-diagnose your squeaking brake problem at home, check out this detailed guide put together by our team at BMW of Meridian. Once you figure out your issue, contact our service department to schedule your next appointment!


Foot Pressing Brakes

Quick Facts Table: Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

Below, you’ll find a quick facts table that contains a variety of reasons your brakes could be squeaking:

Why Are My Brakes Squeaking?

  • Dust, sand, and other dirt/debris
  • Weather (especially during cold temperatures)
  • Snow, rain, or high-water levels
  • Strain on your brakes
  • Semi-metallic brake pads
  • Overnight moisture
  • Carrying heavy loads in vehicle

Brake Pads

What Causes Squeaky Brakes?

When your brakes are squeaking, it’s because there’s applied pressure at certain speeds that create friction in your brake system, resulting in a squeaking or squealing sound when you apply them. Brakes are made from metal and are located between two brake pads that rub against each other to make the sound.

Although all squeaking noises sound pretty much the same, each sound could mean something different. Your brakes making this noise is usually an indication there is something that needs to be checked out, and there are a variety of factors that could be contributing to this.


Brake Repair

How to Fix Squeaking Brakes?

Most of the previous contributing factors to your squeaking brakes are nothing to worry about, however, there are a few additional reasons that could indicate it’s time for your next service/repair. If the factors on the quick facts list don’t make sense as to why your brakes are squeaking, it could mean your brake pads are experiencing wear and tear.

If this is the case, it means you’ll be ready for a brake pad replacement. Brake pads are designed thin, and often wear out quickly depending on how often you drive your vehicle. A brake pad replacement is a common service we perform at our BMW service center.

Managing your driving conditions, like driving with a smaller weight load and downshifting in lower gears could help keep your brakes from squeaking. Also, if you’re someone who tends to do heavy driving, you may want to consider making the switch to ceramic brake pads. Because they are designed a bit more heavy-duty, they will last longer than the regular pads.


How Do I Get My Brakes to Stop Squeaking?

If your brakes are making a loud squeaking noise and you believe it could be your brake pads wearing out, we’re here to help. Our team at BMW of Meridian is ready to tackle any service, big or small. We take pride in helping drivers near Meridian, Philadelphia, and Laurel, MS, get back on the road ASAP.

Schedule your service appointment online today!


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2000 Highway 39 N, Meridian, MS, 39301
BMW of Meridian 32.380341, -88.6827163.