Can I spray WD-40 on my brake pads to stop squeaking?
Brake squeaking can be an annoying and concerning issue for drivers. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we often get asked whether spraying WD-40 on brake pads is a good solution to stop the noise. Let’s dive into this topic to clarify why this is not a recommended practice and explore safer alternatives.
Why You Should Never Spray WD-40 on Brake Pads
WD-40 is a versatile lubricant and water-displacing spray, but it is not designed for use on brake components. Here’s why applying it to your brake pads is a bad idea:
- Compromised Braking Performance: Brake pads rely on friction to stop your vehicle. Spraying WD-40 on them reduces this friction, making it harder for your brakes to function effectively. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions.
- Contamination of Brake Components: WD-40 can spread to other parts of the braking system, such as the rotors and calipers, causing further contamination and reducing overall braking efficiency.
- Potential Damage: The chemicals in WD-40 are not formulated for high-temperature environments like your brakes. This can lead to residue buildup or even damage to the brake pads and rotors over time.
What Causes Brake Squeaking?
Before addressing the squeaking, it’s important to understand the common causes of this issue. Brake squeaking can occur due to:
- Worn Brake Pads: Over time, brake pads wear down, and the metal wear indicators can create a squealing noise to signal it’s time for a replacement.
- Glazed Brake Pads or Rotors: Excessive heat can cause the surface of the pads or rotors to become smooth and shiny, leading to squeaking.
- Dust and Debris: Dirt or debris trapped between the brake pads and rotors can cause noise.
- Lack of Lubrication: The back of the brake pads or other moving parts in the braking system may need proper lubrication (using a brake-specific lubricant, not WD-40).
Safe and Effective Solutions for Squeaky Brakes
Instead of using WD-40, consider these safer alternatives to address brake squeaking:
- Inspect and Replace Brake Pads: If your brake pads are worn, replace them with high-quality pads designed for your vehicle.
- Clean the Braking System: Use a brake cleaner spray to remove dust, dirt, and debris from the pads and rotors.
- Apply Brake Lubricant: Use a brake-specific lubricant on the back of the brake pads and other moving parts to reduce noise.
- Resurface or Replace Rotors: If the rotors are glazed or uneven, have them resurfaced or replaced by a professional.
- Consult a Professional: If the squeaking persists, bring your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin's Autos for a thorough inspection and repair.
Conclusion
While WD-40 is a handy product for many applications, it is not suitable for use on brake pads. Doing so can compromise your safety and the performance of your braking system. If you’re dealing with squeaky brakes, it’s best to address the root cause using proper methods or seek professional assistance. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help you keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly. Feel free to contact us for expert advice or to schedule a brake inspection!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean if brakes are squeaking?
The most common reason brakes squeak is that the metal wear indicator on the brake pad touches the metal rotor. This is normal and expected from wear over time, but does indicate you should replace your brakes soon. Brake pads have a built-in mechanism to inform the driver when they are getting low and need replacing.
How to lubricate brake pads?
The moving and sliding components with a minimal amount of lubricant. A thin layer is all that is needed Place Lube on all the caliper bushings. Slide pins and clips installed in the caliper.
Will WD-40 fix squeaky brakes?
No, WD-40 is not a good option for this purpose. It is an oily product and if you put it between the band and the pulleys, it will increase the sliding. The efficiency of the rotation of the components will decrease.
Does WD-40 help with squeaks?
Lubricate the source of the squeaking
Firstly, source where the squeaking is coming from. For all areas except the air lift piston, use WD-40® Multi-Use Product Flexible Straw to gently spray the versatile lubricant into the affected joint.
What can I put on brake pads to stop squeaking?
How to Fix Squeaky Brakes
- Put Some Grease or Other Lubricant on the Brake Pads. If your vehicle brakes are new and still making a squeaking sound, the fix may be as easy as lubricating the touchpoints.
- Put a Set of Shims. For additional help against loud brakes, try using brake pad shims.
- Replace the Rotors and Pads.
What is the best brake cleaner to stop squeaking brakes?
The Best Technicians Trust CRC Brākleen ®, the Best Brake Cleaner Spray. In 1971, Brakleen became the first brake cleaner spray of its kind. It is still the industry leader today for technicians and do-it-yourselfers for fast and effective brake service solutions.
Can I spray something on my brakes to stop squeaking?
Clean them with Lucas Oil Brake Parts Cleaner! Reduce long term wear and tear and increase the effectiveness of your brakes by removing brake fluid, grease, dust, and other contaminants from your brakes.
What happens if you spray WD-40 on brakes?
Yes, that is unsafe. The WD-40 will lubricate your rotors and potentially soak into the pads, so they won't work properly. Don't do this. You will ruin your brakes and force yourself to replace them.
How do you fix super squeaky brakes?
APPLY LUBRICATION TO CONTACT POINTS
The contact points where the pads meet the caliper and pad clips, as well as the slide pins, must be properly lubricated to prevent noise and ensure smooth movement. After cleaning the pad edges and caliper contact points, apply a thin layer of brake lubricant to these areas.
What lubricant to use for squeaky brakes?
To lubricate hydraulic components, such as the piston seals inside wheel cylinders and calipers, use silicone-based brake lube. These types of lubricants will enable smooth movement of the seals as well as helping to prevent these parts from corroding or sticking.
