On any vehicle, issues can occasionally come from nowhere. Of course, frequent maintenance checks can give you the foresight to prevent future problems, but everyday issues could still happen at any time. One of those concerns might be screeching brakes, and there are ways to avoid this, depending on if they are new or old. Brake squeaking could occur due to your driving conditions or driving habits. Here we’ll provide a deeper breakdown of some frequent causes why your brakes are squeaking, how many miles brake pads might last, and when to change your brakes.
Why Are My Brand-New Brake Pads Squeaking?
This may surprise you, but one cause of brake screeching is that they are simply just too new. Your brakes might require some more time to get acclimated to the vehicle. In this case, weather conditions could lead to built-up moisture on your brakes, and it could take a while to remove that moisture. Additionally, the way you drive can cause some brake screeching. Late braking or “riding” your brakes (keeping your foot on the brakes) could lead to brake squeaking, especially if they are new. If that’s the case, think about giving your brakes a rest to help avoid making more heat.
Driving with Worn-out Brake Pads, That Should Be Replaced, Can Cause Brake Screeching
Worn-down brakes are typically why you might hear that squeaking as well. Over time, components on any vehicle will likely begin to wear down because of driving habits, moisture, if it is garaged, and rust. The simple solution is to get those brakes changed with brand-new parts. However, a shift in how you drive on the highway could reduce the screeching prior to taking them to the shop.
When Should I Replace The Brake Pads?
The lifespan of brake pads could last quite a long time, based on the way you drive. Understanding your driving habits is the most important, as it can help drivers understand when to change the brake pads. Brake pads typically last 25,000-65,000 miles, but driving habits have a crucial position. Riding the brakes (when your foot is always on the brake pedal) and hard braking puts friction and pressure on your brakes and can lead to shrinking their life. If screeching begins to occur, you might get them replaced and think about adjusting your driving habits to increase the pad’s lifespan.
Does Your Vehicle Need Its Brakes Replaced?
Contact us at Mercedes-Benz of Clear Lake if you think your brake pads need to be changed. Our team of professionals is ready to take all of the guesswork out of figuring out the specific brake service your car or SUV needs. We will happily service your vehicle no matter its make or model. Schedule your brake service appointment today.
