What causes brake squeaking?

Brake squeaking is a common issue and can be caused by several factors. Often, the noise occurs due to vibration between the brake pads and the rotor when you apply the brakes. Some typical causes include worn brake pads, glazed pads or rotors, dirt or debris caught between the pads and rotors, or lack of lubrication on certain brake components. Worn brake pads are a frequent culprit—when the friction material is low, the metal backing plate may contact the rotor, causing a high-pitched squeak or squeal. Glazing happens when brake pads or rotors overheat, creating a hard, smooth surface that produces noise and reduces braking efficiency. Dust, dirt, or rust buildup on the rotors or pads can also cause squeaking. Additionally, some pads have built-in wear indicators that emit a squealing sound as a warning to replace them. As for safety, occasional light squeaking does not necessarily mean your brakes are unsafe, but persistent or loud squealing should not be ignored. It’s a good idea to have your brakes inspected by a mechanic to check pad thickness, rotor condition, and overall brake system health. Driving with severely worn or damaged brakes can compromise vehicle safety, so addressing the issue promptly helps ensure reliable stopping power and peace of mind.