Believe it or not, the most probable cause of this is most likely not a problem. Today’s brake pads are made out of a different material than those in the past. These new semi-metallic brake pads seem to cause a certain amount of squealing today that is considered “normal”. Take notice of when you are hearing the squealing. If it occurs for the first little bit while the brakes are cold, when they are slightly wet from dew, or the last few feet of a stop are generally not a problem.

Another cause of this squeal or grinding noise may be due to the device that is now designed into braking systems to alert you of worn brake pads. If you hear squeal or grinding in excess, bring your vehicle in to us and we would be more than happy to diagnose the problem for you and let you know if there is anything that needs to be addressed.

Do not hesitate or procrastinate with possible braking problems. If you hear an unusual noise, experience any inconsistency with your braking, or have any questions at all, please come visit us right away so that we may assist you.

Visit us regularly to ensure that your brakes are always in proper working order.

If you have any of the symptoms listed below or anything else that concerns you bring your vehicle in and our technicians will correct the problem.

Grinding This sound is caused by metal-on-metal wear and tear that indicates your brake pads have been worn through. This could cause damage to the rotors and drums of your braking system and potentially cause brake failure unless promptly addressed.

Excessive Squeaks or Squeals
This sound indicates friction creating heat on the brake linings and can cause damage to your braking system.

Fully-Depressed Brake Pedal or Pumping If your brake pedal can be “floored”, or entirely depressed, this is a signal that you may have a leak in your brake fluid system. You might have air in the brake system or your vehicle might have the need for a brake adjustment that causes this. Needing to pump your brakes to stop the vehicle is another symptom caused by these issues.

Drifting to one side while braking
This may be caused by uneven wear on your brake linings, impure brake fluid, or the need for a brake adjustment.

Vibration when braking
Vibration is most likely due to warped rotors or worn calipers. This should be attended to right away. Our technicians will be able to analyze the problem for you and effectively repair it for you to make sure you have a safe and secure working brake system.

You should have your brakes checked at least once a year, but no damage will be done if you have them checked more often. Bring your vehicle into Tire Factory at any time for a brake inspection. We will make sure all your main brake components are in top-notch condition, that there is no corrosion on the brake lines, ensure all the hoses are intact, and take care of all other braking maintenance.

Services include:
A qualified Tire Factory technician will be able to inspect and service all parts of your braking system, including:

The Master Cylinder
The main component to your braking system pumps the brake fluid to the calipers or wheel cylinder when you depress the brake pedal. This pressure converts your physical pressure on the pedal to hydraulic pressure used to operate the wheel cylinder or calipers.

Wheel Cylinder or Calipers
These devices are used to convert the hydraulic pressure and exert the force needed on the brakes to stop the vehicle. Our Tire Factory technicians will inspect for leaks in the seals during your brake inspection

Anti-Lock Brakes
Your ABS system will be thoroughly checked during the brake inspection. The ABS is controlled electronically and is designed to detect braking problems and correct them.

Brake Pads and Shoes
These components should be inspected frequently to check for wear on the linings. Our technician will exam the wear and will determine if the linings need to be replaced.

Parking Brake
Our technician will make sure your parking brake is in expected working condition by checking proper lubrication, adjustment, and corrosion.