Written By: Jonathan
Fact Checked By: Caroline Dezendorf
Reviewed By: Matt Tanner
This is a common problem, but yes, it causes a lot of trouble to the passengers.
Not only that, the loud noise can also be very embarrassing, and you have to wonder if it is a sign of your brakes.
They have dirt, oil, moisture in them, or they’re misaligned, so they’re making that squeaking noise that comes from vibration between the brake pad and the rim or rotor.
So both rim and disc brakes have their own causes and solutions, and the good news is that most squeaks can be fixed quickly at home with just basic tools and cleaning supplies.
Besides, according to bike mechanics, more than 70% of brake noise problems are caused by contaminated surfaces or worn components, so don’t worry about any serious damage.
Which basically means that they require regular cleaning pad inspection and simple adjustment, and that is all it takes to stop the noise and restore the smooth and quiet nature of the brakes.
This is the guide where you will learn How To Stop Bicycle Brakes From Squeaking, and in the process you may be able to identify the source of the squeak, then it also involves taking steps to prevent them from recurring and doing prevention.
Why Do Bicycle Brakes Squeak Actually?: The Cause, The Reason
This literally means when something disrupts the smooth contact between the brake pads and the surface they apply pressure on, which could be either the wheel rim for rim brakes or the brake rotor for disc brakes.
It could just be a minor issue that causes this squeaking problem, and yes, it is a minor issue and can be easily fixed.
There are two types of self-excited vibrations are known for now: “Squeal” which is at approximately 1,000 Hz and “chatter” which is around 500 Hz.[¹]
1. Contaminated Brake Pads or Rims/Rotors
If your bicycle’s brake pads do have contaminated from substances like chain lube, bike polish, degreaser or even skin oils that can literally lead to persistent squealing. If it has highly huge contamination then pads often need replacement as cleaning may not fully restore their performance.[²]
Because the contamination actually creates a slippery layer that prevents the brake pads from gripping properly, and this is why these things can cause vibrations and noises.
Yes, this is very common, specially for people who cycle in wet or muddy conditions.
2. Misaligned Brake Pads
Ideal brake pads hit the rim or rotor really evenly, and if they’re at the wrong angle or installed too far off center, it’s common that they’ll start to vibrate when braking, and then this usually leads to a squealing sound.
Therefore, you will need to align the rim brakes in a slight “toe-in” manner, where the front of the pad touches the rim slightly before the rear, this can greatly reduce or eliminate noise.
3. Glazed Pads or Rotors
When brake pads or rotors become too hot, usually caused by heavy braking on a long downhill ride, they can develop a smooth, hard surface known as glazing simply.
Then again the glazed pads don’t really grip that well and they often make loud squeaking or creaking noises too.
All you need to do is lightly sand the surface which can often fix this problem.
4. Worn Brake Pads
It’s natural for brake pads to wear out over time, and if they’re too thin, hard or worn unevenly they won’t apply proper pressure to the rim or rotor, leading to poor braking performance and noise.
Plus, most brake pads actually come with indicators, which are little grooves or lines that tell you when it’s time to replace them.
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5. Wet or Humid Conditions
You might say that moisture is a very common cause, but it can also cause your brakes to temporarily squeak, especially for rim brakes.
So, when water gets between the pad and the rim or rotor, it actually creates a thick film that can cause high-pitched noises, and yes this usually stops after a few minutes of riding and braking as the parts become fully dry, so you don’t have to worry about this at all.
6. Rim Brakes Vs Disc Brakes
The basic difference is in the way rim and disc brakes work, since rim brakes actually press rubber pads onto the sides of the wheel’s rim, while disc brakes actually use a metal rotor that’s mounted to a hub and held in place by calipers.
Therefore, rim brakes are more likely to creak if the conditions are wet, as the rims always need to be kept clean.
Disc brakes, on the other hand, are more sensitive to oil contamination and require very clean rotors and pads to really stay cool while riding.
So, these are all kinds of causes but you need to know which type of cause is causing the squeaking problem with your brake type, that really helps you troubleshoot more accurately.
2. Identify Your Brake Type
Yes, first of all it is important to know what type of brakes you actually have, then you can do the right things with them with the right strategy.
Rim Brakes
You can easily recognize rim brakes because they slow down your bicycle wheel by pressing a rubber pad against the side of its rim, it’s as simple as that.
Yes, it has two arms that are attached to the frame or fork and each of them holds a brake pad that presses the rim when you pull the brake lever.
Disc Brakes
Disc brakes actually work differently from rim brakes, as they stop the bike by pressing the pads against a metal disc known as the rotor, which is actually attached to the hub which is the center of the wheel.
And the braking force is actually applied closer to the center of the wheel.
How to Fix Squeaky Rim Brakes
If you’ve identified that your bicycle actually uses RIM BRAKES and they’re squeaking, you just need these easy things to fix them at home.
1. Clean the Brake Pads and Rims
If you notice that there is dirt, oil and any type of deposit on both the rim and the brake pad, this contamination literally makes them squeak, as it creates uneven or slippery contact between the pad and the wheel.
So, if that is the case then you will just need these items:
- At least 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol.
- Also, a clean cloth or rag.
- And then a fine grit sandpaper, yes this is optional but if you want to use then use 120 to 220 grit one.
Clean Rim Brakes that are Squeaking (Step-by-Step Guide)
First, you need to thoroughly wipe down the surface of the rim where the pads actually make contact, using a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol.
Now, clean the brake pads with alcohol as well, just make sure you remove any dirt or grease if there is any.
If you notice that your pads look shiny or glazed, which is usually a hard or smooth surface, gently rub the surface with sandpaper to rough it up a bit, this is important as it really improves the grip and also reduces noise.
Just don’t worry about it, let everything dry completely before using the brakes again.
NOTE: You should not use soap, WD-40 or degreaser on the brake pad or rim surface as these are things that can literally make the squeak worse and can also significantly reduce braking power.
2. Check and Adjust Pad Alignment
If you notice that the brake pads are not actually seated correctly on the rim, this could also be the reason why they cause vibrations, which leads to the squeaking sound.
Therefore, the most common adjustment you can make is the “toe-in” method, where the front of the pad touches the rim slightly before the rear does.
Just check your pad alignment, as the pads should be centered on the rim surface and also make sure they are not too high or too low, and secondly the front edge of the pad should touch the rim slightly before the back edge.
How to Adjust the Pad Alignment When They are Squeaky
- Loosen the bolts that hold the brake pads.
- Now, you need to bend it inwards a bit using a piece of thin cardboard or bent business car just behind the back of the pad.
- Now continue tightening the bolt but make sure the pad is in the correct position.
- Now, you need to test for even contact and low noise for your brakes by turning the wheel and pressing the brake lever.
NOTE: Toe-in actually reduces vibration and it helps the pads grip the rim more easily and yes, it completely eliminates the squeak if misalignment is the issue.
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3. Inspect for Pad Wear
You should check if the brake pads are worn out or hardened by the heads and this can happen because they have been used for a long time as the worn out pads actually lose the grip and they also produce a harsh squeaking sound.
You need to check the grooves or wear indicators on the pads, and if they have worn flat then it’s time to replace them.
Or you may also need to check the glazing: if the pads look shiny or feel rough when you touch them, they may need sanding or, if they’re badly worn, they may need to be replaced.
When to Replace Rather Than Repair
If you see that the thickness of the pads is less than 1 or 2 mm, it clearly means that you have to replace them.
And if the pads are more than 2 years old or you feel they have become too hard when you touch them, it is better to replace them.
You should also replace pads in pairs, because if you notice that one pad is good and the other is worn out, you will still have to replace both pairs to ensure balanced braking performance.
4. Sand Brake Pads
Yes, this is completely optional, but it really helps.
For instance, if you notice that your pads are not completely worn out but have developed a shiny surface on them due to high speed riding or prolonged braking here and there, then this shiny surface might actually be the issue behind reducing the friction and increasing the squeak.
How to Sand Brake Pads that Squeals
- If you are having difficulty sanding the brake arms when installing them you will need to remove them.
- Don’t overdo it, just sand the brake pad surface gently in a circular motion with fine sandpaper.
- You then need to wipe off the dust with rubbing alcohol before reinstalling them.
This is actually a very good option that temporarily fixes the squeaking problem, but if the shine returns soon, you should consider replacing the brake pads instead of sanding them again.
How to Fix Squeaky Disc Brakes
Disc brakes are ideal to use in dry or muddy conditions, providing powerful and consistent control and performance.
Some common problems that can occur with disc brakes are: contamination, improper pad placement, or rotor alignment issues.
1. Clean the Rotors and Pads
When you have disc brakes you must keep them very clean otherwise they will not work properly, and even a small amount of oil, dirt or grease can literally cause noise and reduce braking power and affect it badly.
To solve this problem you will need isopropyl alcohol which should be 90% or more, also clean cloth or paper towel will work along with nitrile gloves which is totally an option and not really needed at all if you want to avoid touching the parts with bare hands and if you are ok with that.
How to Clean Rotors and Pads that Squeaks
- You’ll need to spray or soak a cloth with isopropyl alcohol first.
- Then you have to wipe both sides of the rotor thoroughly, so that they are free from all types of contamination.
- Also, you will need to use a separate clean cloth to wipe the brake pads while they are still installed or you can remove them for better access.
NOTE: If you notice that the rotors still look dull or smell like they are burning, it could be the shiny stuff and then you will have to sand it lightly or if they are worse you can consider replacing them.
2. Check for contamination
Yes it is open fact that disc brakes are very sensitive to any oily substance, even chain lube, bike polish may cause squeaking.
Therefore, you must ensure that any contaminated pad is not cleaned or else it may never return to full functionality and you may even need to replace it.
You should pay attention to a few things like: Look for black, shiny, or greasy looking spots on the rotor or pad, you can smell the pads and if there is any contamination available, you will smell burning or oil, also you should check if the brakes make noise and feel weak or inconsistent when you stop the bicycle.
How to clean Contaminated Brake Pads that makes Squeaky Noises
- You need to clean the rotors thoroughly using alcohol.
- You can remove the brake pads and then you can easily sand the surface lightly if you see that only minor contamination is available.
- If you notice that the contamination is very serious, such as: if chain lube has spilled on it, you must also replace the brake pads with new ones.
You must make sure to never spray lubricant or cleaner near the brakes without covering them first, just cover them and then fix it easily.
3. Bed-In New Brake Pads
If newly installed disc brake pads are not gripping properly, you need a bedding-in process, in which a thin layer of pad material is transferred to the rotor, which actually creates the proper friction, and without this, squeaking and poor braking problems will arise.
How to Bed-In Squeaky Disc Brakes
- You need to find a safe and flat area where you can ride freely.
- Then you have to cycle up to a speed of about 10 to 15 mph which is 15 to 25 km/h, and then you have to gently apply the brake until you almost stop the cycle.
- Repeat this about 10 to 20 times on each brake, making sure to increase the pressure slightly each time.
When you do this bedding-in process correctly, you will clearly notice improved braking power as well as reduced squeaking noise.
4. Check Rotor Alignment
If your rotor is misaligned or slightly bent this can also cause squeaking as it can rub against the brake pads as it spins.
This rubbing also causes a constant squeaking or scratching sound, especially when you drive at slow speeds.
You can spot this problem when you spin the wheel and then watch the rotor go through the caliper.
Apart from this, you will also need to pay attention to a side-to-side wobble or you may hear a rubbing sound at certain points.
How to Fix Rotor Alignment Which Squeaks
- You’ll actually need to use a rotor truing tool or an adjustable wrench so you can gently bend the rotor back into place.
- Now, you have to make small adjustments and then you have to recheck it from time to time.
- When you see that the rotor is badly warped, the only solution is to replace it.
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Preventive Maintenance Tips
They require regular maintenance to keep you cool and working properly, and you can easily prevent your brakes from making squeaking noises if you keep track of it.
1. Follow a Regular Cleaning Schedule
You have to make sure that the brake pads and the braking surfaces which are the rim or rotor do not have any build up of dirt, dust, moisture and oil from the road, and this build up over a long period of time causes squeaking and poor braking, which is why you have to make sure that they stay clean.
You can wipe down your brake pads and rims/rotors with isopropyl alcohol at least once every month and then clean with a cloth.
Whenever you drive in rainy or muddy conditions, clean your brakes as soon as possible to prevent any contamination.
So, you can include this in your bike cleaning routine so that you don’t forget it in the future.
2. Avoid Over-Lubing Near Braking Components
Whenever you lubricate the chain or any moving parts, you should avoid using excessive oil and spray-on cleaners, as they should never get on your brakes.
That is why I am urging you not to make any kind of mistake, because even a small drop can cause a loud squeal and it actually reduces the braking power.
So, when you’re applying lubricant to your chain or any other moving part, make sure you cover your rotors or rims with a simple cloth to prevent overspray.
If however you accidentally spill oil on the brakes then immediately clean the area with isopropyl alcohol and the brakes will be fine.
3. Store Your Bike In a Dry & Clean Space
If you keep your bike in the open or in damp, rainy or dirty places, it can cause serious damage to your brakes even if the bike is not being used at all.
Additionally, wet storage can lead to problems such as rust, pad glazing, and moisture-related creaking.
Therefore, you need to keep your bikes indoors or under a weatherproof cover, or you can store them in a garage or shed, which will reduce their chances of exposure to dust and water.
If your floor also has moisture, you can use a bike stand or wall mount to prevent that.
4. Replace Pads and Rotors
If you notice that your brake pads and rotors are slowly wearing down with use, don’t let them get too thin as this will lead to reduced stopping power, strange noises, and even safety issues in the long run.
When you notice that the rim brake pad grooves have disappeared or the pad thickness has reduced to less than 1 to 2 mm, replace it.
In case of disc brake pads you can replace them when the braking material is thinner than 1mm.
Also, for rotors you should check the minimum thickness which is actually marked on the rotor itself which is usually 1.5mm or 1.8mm and if it is very close to or below that level then replace it as a first priority.
If you replace the pads early then it will really help in preventing any unnecessary damage to your rims or rotors and will keep the braking quiet and powerful at any time, plus it will also enhance the look of the bicycle.
Conclusion
Imagine you are walking down the street on a quiet morning and there is no traffic, no wind and only the gentle sound of your tyres and your own rhythm and then suddenly you hear a scream!
And you realize that these are your breaks which are very small but just annoying and disturb your peace.
Just understand that it’s not just the sound of brakes, they are saying “I want your attention”.
Sometimes you will find that the pads have some dust on them, oil on them or they are making noise because they are misaligned, then you just have to address them and fix them as it is very easy to fix.
As this guide is all about How To Stop Bicycle Brakes From Squeaking, you can understand everything your brakes say to stop that annoying squeaking noise.
Do you still have any questions or want to know about something? Just write your thoughts in the comments below and we are just a step away from you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is brake squeaking dangerous?
Answer: Not always, as a little squeaking sound doesn’t necessarily mean that your brakes aren’t working at all, however if you hear that sound constantly and feel your bicycle is stopping slowly, you may want to consider getting them repaired.
2. How often should I clean my bicycle brakes?
Answer: You can clean your brake pads and rims or rotors every month, or you may need to do it sooner if you drive in wet, heavy duty or muddy conditions.
References:
[1] Nakae, T., Ryu, T., Sueoka, A., & Nakano, Y. (2011). Squeal and chatter phenomena generated in a mountain bike disc brake. Journal of Sound and Vibration, 330(10), 2138-2149. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232371750_Squeal_and_chatter_phenomena_generated_in_a_mountain_bike_disc_brake
[2] Reddit. (n.d.). Brakes are squealing. I’ve tried everything. https://www.reddit.com/r/MTB/comments/151yvky/brakes_are_squealing_ive_tried_everything/
Jonathan, the passionate owner of Bicycle Time, brings a lifelong love for bikes and automotive craftsmanship, that reflects into every corner of the shop. With deep passion in both cycling and automotive accessories, Jonathan is more than just an expert.