Chrysler Repair: squeaking new brakes/rotors, rotor assembly, dodge caravan

Question
I have replaced the brakes and rotors on my '99 Dodge Caravan and within 2 weeks the squealing/squeaking began again. This has been an ongoing problem. I have replaced the pads even when they weren't worn out but the noise would quickly start back. Any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Jami,
There are two surfaces where noise can be generated that might be ameliorated. The back of the brake pad surface is in contact with piston of the caliper, and so there should be a good adhesive connection between those surfaces so they don't vibrate against oneanother when they are pressing down on the rotor. Even if the pads came with an adhesive surface (paper tearoff at time of installation) you might want to buy some spray-on pad backing adhesive, spray them, and reinstall them. The other surface is the rail along which the 'ears' of the pads slide. These too can be a source of noise, but usually the manufacturer of the caliper or the pad will have accessory cushioning material for that interface. I haven't used these but I know some styles of calipers use them. You might ask at a good auto parts store if they can specify a type of cushion for that. The noise is usually more of a rattling when the brakes are not being applied, however. And of course there are bent wire "anti-rattle" clips. So you might want to go to the Chrysler dealer and ask them to let you look at the reference caliper/rotor assembly for your particular model and verify that you aren't missing some such part.
Roland