1998 Dodge Stratus Noise when Braking

COMPSLORD

MEMBER
1998 DODGE STRATUS
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
103,000 MILES

My mechanic tells me that my brakes and rotors are fine and in no need of any work. But, every time I apply the brakes especially when I first start the car in the morning, there is a distinct squeal and noise.

Is my mechanic correct or is there something else going on that needs my attention.

Thanks,
Ron

5 Replies

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

The rotors are "glazed", the shine on the rotors. Have you mechanic re-surface the rotors to remove the glaze and you should be fine.

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Tuesday, January 6th, 2009 AT 1:17 AM

COMPSLORD

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6 POSTS

My rotors have just been resurfaced and need to be replaced when my pads wear out.

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Tuesday, January 6th, 2009 AT 2:40 AM

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

If the noise only happens when the brake is being applied, it has to come from the brake system. If the technician claims that your brake is fine and needs no attention, ask him then, why it squeals every time you apply the brake.

I have seen, in other vehicles, by using inferior brake pads and/or not applying brake caliper grease such as

or noise-quiet material such as CRC 05017

will cause the squeaking noise that you are describing.

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Wednesday, January 7th, 2009 AT 9:14 PM

COMPSLORD

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6 POSTS

The mechanic that I used was Midas. Are they known to use quality parts or just the cheapest? How easy would it by to apply the no noise to my brakes myself?

Thanks

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Thursday, January 8th, 2009 AT 1:21 AM

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

I wouldn't know what your local Midas uses. Usually most shop will find the most economical parts to minimize cost and maximize their bottom line.

It is fairly easy to apply the brake grease. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheels. Do one side completely before attempting the other side. This way, if you happen to forget how a part is attached, you can look at the other side. It should the "mirror image" of the side that you are working on.

Use 17mm socket and 3/8 ratchet and remove the top caliper bolt. Swing the caliper towards the rear of the vehicle (pivoting on the lower caliper bolt). Remove the brake pad (one at a time). Apply the brake grease at all metal-to-metal contact points

Re-install brake pads. Wipe clean the caliper bolt and apply brake grease all over the bolt (except the bolt head, of course. Install the caliper and tighten the caliper bolt. Now do the other side.