Squeaky brakes?
Squeaky brakes are common problems in the automotive industry. It's such a common nuisance that drivers usually ignore it until it becomes a big problem. Fixing these noisy brakes is actually an easy and inexpensive fix if you take care of it at the very instant it squeaks.
So why do brakes squeak?
Brakes, especially the modern disc assemblies, are very efficient and don't make so much noise except when there's a problem. Don't get me wrong. Brakes are never supremely silent. They do make a noise. But a bothersome squeak that can be heard from inside the car is a different story.
Modern brakes use casted iron disc or drums and they get either squeezed or pushed to stop rotating by brake pads lined with a solid compound composed of shaved metals and resin. Those metals shavings in the brake pads do make noise when in contact with the brake discs or drums. These metal pad compositions will make a swishing or grinding noise on some occasions (wet) especially when starting up. Normally you won't be able to hear that noise when braking.
When the squeaking becomes obvious while braking, then that is an indication of a problem. Drum brakes usually make noise when they're dirty and need servicing and these types of brake systems usually need more periodic maintenance that disc systems. Disc brakes, on the other hand, have wear indicators made of steel fingers that scrap on the discs to warn you that the brake pads need to be changed and the brake system serviced. It's a sound not easily confused with brake squeal as it consistent even if you don't apply the brakes. It's unusual for these kinds of system to jam or get stuck. But if they do, it is usually because of corrosion.
It's usually hard to beat the OEM(Original Equipment Manufacturer)brake parts in terms of quality (life, noise, grip). But OEM parts are usually just too expensive. A good compromise might be the well-known aftermarket brands like Koyo, Bendix or Icer. Just do a research and buy those pads that are dirt cheap and won't give you the same performance and durability as the good aftermarkets brake pads offer. A few aftermarket performance pads like Brembo and EBC will make noise. That's normal for premium high metallic or ceramic pads. These pads have high metal or ceramic content and are built for better stopping power.
Don't get yourself carried away with all those potions and widgets claiming to cure brake noise. There is absolutely nothing that can cure it except proper servicing and maintenance.
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