All sounds come from vibrations. In older times, unlubricated surfaces would crack. Sometimes the wheel hub was temporarily welded to the axle, then suddenly released, producing a creak. Today, similar timing happens in modern brakes when pads momentarily stick to the disc or drum during braking and then release.
How to combat it?
Cart axles were periodically lubricated to quiet the creaking, but brake pads must not have lubrication on the contact surfaces. If that happened, brakes would fail. The goal is to stop the pads from vibrating freely while still providing reliable braking.
There are several practical approaches.
- Backside pads can receive anti-crack materials, made from metal or vibration-damping compounds, while chamfers are added to the working edges. This reduces the active area but shifts vibrations away from audible ranges.
Some vehicles cut noise by fitting a coiled spring that lightly compresses the outer pads.
- Other methods include creating slots on the pad surfaces. A dampening plate may be attached to the pad back with legs, and in some cases different mounting brackets are used for the same aim.
Many pads feature acoustic wear indicators. These devices emit a high-pitched screech as pads thin, signaling when replacement is needed.
Ways to lower cracking risk include: 1) inserts in guide pads made from thin, elastic stainless steel; 2) a metal strip on the non-working side of the block; 3) a metal overlay with a protective anti-cracking coating.
We plan ahead
Worn pads themselves can produce a distinct squeak. Delaying replacement is unwise because worn pads lose braking efficiency, and extreme wear can push pistons to the limit. Replacing them early helps maintain braking performance and silence.
A riveted holder inside the shoe prevents squeaking, while chamfered edges on the overlay aid quiet operation.
Choose quality
Noise often starts when a manufacturer adds excessive iron particles to the friction mix. Such pads may slow suddenly and wear the discs faster, leading to higher costs. They also overheat more easily, making it harder to modulate braking force.
Brake pads designed for certain VAZ models can be suitable for front-wheel-drive vehicles from specific suppliers. For cars with ABS and ventilated discs, affordable and reliable wear-resistant pads under the Za Rulem label are a practical option.
For rear-wheel-drive VAZs, no wear-warning beeps can be installed on the front pads, so proactive replacement helps protect discs.
When choosing pads, brands with solid market reputation are often the best bet. Yet many owners of mass-market cars may opt for budget options from well-known domestic brands, avoiding metal-on-metal damage by acting early.
All brake pads are consumables; regular replacement is the main benefit for owners.
You can find pads that fit your car and locate nearby retailers using the provided directory.
- Independent tests show that one in three pads could pose a safety risk.
- Maintenance tips can be found via messaging apps used by enthusiasts.