Why Do Brakes Squeak on My Truck?

Squeaky brakes on a truck are an indication that repairs or maintenance must be done soon. Driving around with squeaky brakes can be dangerous, so it is important to have the vehicle inspected promptly.

Rotors

  • Squeaky brakes can be caused by brake rotors. If brake rotors become old, worn or faulty, a squeaking sound is produced when they rub against the brake pads. Rotors can be replaced on a truck. According to CostHelper.com, brake and rotor replacement can cost between $300 to $650 (as of 2010).

Brake Pads

  • Squeaky brakes are most often affiliated with worn, or bad, brake pads. Brake pads are made to withstand a lot of wear and tear. Over time, the pads can become too worn to adequately protect the brakes from scraping against the rotors, thereby causing the truck's brakes to squeak. The pads can be replaced to provide a protective buffer and stop the squeaking.

Dust

  • When too much dust accumulates on brake pads the dust creates a coating or film over the pads. This causes the brakes to squeak when the brake calipers brush against the pads.

Brake Calipers

  • Brake calipers can become loose or faulty and cause a truck's brakes to squeak. Calipers can be tightened to stop the squeaking.