Screeching sounds could be heard sometimes when I apply my brakes. Both front wheels' brake pads were perfect when checked. What is the likely problem?

Foo Say Poh

If you have just changed the brake pads recently, the noise could be due to unevenness between the new brake pads' surface and brake rotor. It could also be due to the type of brake pad material being used. Some semi-metallic pads are inherently noisier than others because of the ingredients used in the manufacture of the friction material. However, the squealing noise caused by the above-mentioned should usually not affect the braking performance.

Nevertheless, the following are some of the common conditions that cause brake noise:

a) Heat cracked or worn "un-true" brake rotors.

b) Rough finish on resurfaced brake rotors.

c) Loose fitting brake pads in the brake callipers.

d) Missing springs or anti-rattle clips that should be on the calliper or pad.

e) Improper tightening sequence of lug nuts or calliper hardware.

f) Contamination on the brake pad.

Automobile Association of Singapore