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Troubleshooting
/ Squeaking Noise
Car Squeaking Noises
Many squeaking noises are created when metal is contacting metal and a linear
motion is introduced or when rubber is forced over a metal pulley. In general, a
squeaking noise is trying to tell you there is a problem somewhere in the car.
When metal is forced against each other combined with a linear motion a harmonic
vibration (squeak) is created that is sometimes audible. In any squeak situation
the location of the squeak is sometimes the hardest task to determine. If
detection is difficult employ a helper to ride in the rear seat of the car to differentiate
the noise origin.
The "Car Squeaks"
A. Brake Pad Warning
Sensor. Most
brake pads
are designed with a warning sensor that creates noise when the brakes are depressed
or when the car is in motion without the brakes applied. While driving this design
informs the driver with a squeaking noise when the brake material has worn down
to the minimum thickness and needs replacement. The brake pads noise sensor is also
designed to protect the brake rotor from unnecessary damage.
Brake Pads with Noise Warning Sensor
B. Check Multi Rib Belt Tension. The primary belt function is to supply power
to the steering system, water pump, air pump (if equipped) air conditioner and alternator.
A multi rib belt tensioner is designed to hold a prescribed amount of pressure on
the drive belt. This tension is needed for belt friction to drive various accessories
such as an alternator and water pump. When the belt looses tension a squealing noise
is heard, especially on acceleration.
Cracked Multi Rib Belt
First, inspect the drive belt condition and replace
if needed, then check the tension on the belt by pushing down on the belt. The
belt should be taught with no slack, if there is slack or it is loose
inspect the
drive
belt tensioner and replace as needed.
Drive Belt Tensioner
C. Cheap Brake Pads and Rotors. The
brake pads
and rotors that are original equipment on your car are manufactured with high
quality metals and brake lining material. There are many aftermarket
manufacturers that create sub standard brake components. These cheap brake parts
can squeak, grumble and wear out prematurely. Beware of brake components that
have a "lifetime" warranty. These parts are generally manufactured with inferior
materials that will delivery less performance and durability. Always insist on
high quality brake components, if you are unsure of the quality of brake parts
available use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) for best results.
D. Axle Bearing Failure. An axle bearing is designed to support the
weight of the vehicle while allowing the
wheels to rotate. These bearings are manufactured
with high grade steel that resists wear under extreme conditions. When an axle
bearing fails it allows metal to contact metal under pressure with a linear
motion creating a squeak. Remove axle bearing and replace with new and recheck.
Some vehicles are equipped with a bearing hub assembly. This style of bearing is
replaced by unbolting the bearing hub assembly and replacing it with
a new one.
Axle Bearing Hub
E. Drive Shaft U Joints. A driveshaft U joint is designed to act as a
rotating junction that can be flexible while still transferring energy from the
engine to the
rear differential. A universal joint or U joint is constructed of 4 bearing
caps that house multiple needle bearings. The universal joint is lubricated by
adding grease through a zirk fitting on the joint. Some u joints are
manufactured with a proper amount of grease and do not need service and
therefore do not have a service fitting. If a universal joint fails it can make
a squeaking noise that contours the motion for the car. This condition is most
noticeable at very slow speeds, and fades at higher speeds. To check for this
condition inspect the U joint and look for a light rust powder around the
bearing cups. This rust colored powder is caused by metal disintegrating and is
a sign of universal joint failure. When a universal joint has failed it must be
replaced and cannot be repaired.
Universal or "U" Joint
F. Front Brake Rotor Shield. The
brake rotor
shield is designed to keep rocks and other debris from contact with the brake
rotor. This shield is also designed with an added cooling feature that can
direct air through the brake rotor when the vehicle is in motion. If this shield
contacts the
brake rotor
it can cause a squeaking noise. To check for this condition inspect the shield
and bend shield back into proper position away from the brake rotor.
For exact specific repair procedures for any of the steps above visit our
online repair
manual page.
Troubleshooting
/ Squeaking Noise
Additional "How to" Car Repair or Services
1. How to Replace
Air Filter
2. How to Change
a Cabin filter
3. How to Change
Oil and Filter
4. How to Tune Up with
Throttle Bore Service
5. How to Replace
a Radiator
6. How to
Replace Fuel Filter
7. How to Read Trouble Codes
8. How Filters Work
9. How to Replace
Front Brake Pads
10. How to Replace Rear
Brake Pads
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