Brakes on vehicles can make all sorts of weird noises from squealing, squeaking, screeching, hissing, scratching, swooshing and grinding.
Sometimes it’s normal and sometimes it’s not.
Read more to find out whether you need to get those squeaking brakes checked or not.
How do brakes work?
It’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of how the brake system in a vehicle works.
Most modern vehicles have brake rotors, brake pads and brake calipers (older vehicles may have brake drums on the rear). These all sit behind each wheel of the car or truck.
The caliper holds the brake pads. When you press the brake pedal, this makes the caliper push the pads onto the rotor.
Upon brake pads making contact with the rotor, friction is caused and thus slows the wheel down.
Causes of squeaking brakes
Worn brake pads (brake pad wear indicator triggered)
Temperature difference
Compound material of the brake pads
Warped brake rotors
Moisture
Missing brake pad insulation shim
Anti-rattle clips missing or not aligned
Worn Brake Pads
Brakes squeaking from worn brake pads is definitively the one you need to fix.
Brake pads can be fitted with a warning indicator which will result in a loud squealing noise when the pad is near the end of it’s life.
A visual wear indicator on the pad consists of a groove that runs across the pad. When the material on the pad is flush with the indicator, it’s time for new pads.
Wear indicator on brake pad. This pad shows it still has some life left.
If you are not familiar with replacing the pads/rotors on your vehicle, take it to a local brake expert.
Some repair shops even offer free brake checks, or they are checked during routine maintenance like oil changes.
Look at your brake pad to see how much of the pad is left. You may need a flashlight, but should be able to see it without taking the wheel off.
If the brake pad is less than 1/4″ thick, they probably need replacing.
How long do brake pads last?
Typically between 25,000-50,000 miles. This all depends on the type of brake pad and how hard or how often the vehicle is driven. Lesser quality pads may also wear faster than normal.
Brand new set of brake pads.
Also know that a vehicle sitting for a lonf periods of time without being driven, can cause deterioration of the pads too.
Temperature Difference
Too cold
When the temperature gets below 32 F, snow and ice can build on brake pads and rotors. Even water that gets in there can later freeze causing and ice build up.
This can cause a squealing or squeaking brake noise but should only be temporary as the ice and moisture melts/disspates.
Too hot
Glazing of the brake pads and rotors happens when the pads overheat.
Excessive hard braking, dragging the brake or problems with the system causing the brake to stick on the rotor more than it should.
Overheating the pads results in them becoming hard and/or shiny which reduces the friction. If brakes are glazed, this will eventually cause a build of material on the rotor too, braking delays and a shudder.
If the brake pads are glazed, they need to be replaced. The compound of the pad is effectively ruined at this point.
Brake pad compound (material)
Some brake pads come with a wear-in material. When the pads are brand new, they may squeak a little until they are broken in.
Pads with a high metal content can cause squeaking or squealing when braking.
Race cars can often have brake set-ups that squeals due to the compound material the competition pads are made of. The desired effect of the pad and rotor combination is maximum braking under hard driving conditions. They work best when they are hot. It is normal for high-end brake set-ups to squeal.
Carbon ceramic brake set-ups are also known to be noisier.
Squeaking brakes is a small side effect to pay in return for the brakes being able to stop a car at high speeds.
High temperature grease can be applied to the back of the pad to reduce some noise in this instance.
Warped brake rotors
Rotors are round and supposed to be flat. Completely flat on the surface that the pad makes contact with. The term for a completely flat surface on brake rotors is called honest.
If the rotors are not honest, this results in vibrations due to pads getting bumped on the uneven surface. This can cause further damage and other parts or prices to become misaligned.
It’s likely a vibration from the brake pedal or steering wheel is felt before squeaking brakes in this instance.
Moisture
Water getting on the rotors and pads can cause squeaking brakes.
Snow, rain and/or condensation build up can make the brakes squeal when pressing the brake pedal.
Moisture can also cause the rotors to rust. Rust can also cause some noises from the brakes. The noise should go away after some driving. Applying the brakes should help clean the rust off the rotors.
Missing shims
hims are there to reduce noise by dampening vibrations between the pads and rotors.
If the shim is missing, misaligned or not making contact with the brake pad, it can’t do it’s job. This will increase the likelihood of brakes squeaking.
Anti-rattle clips missing or not aligned
Missing or misaligned anti-rattle clips can cause squeaking brakes. Anti-rattle clips are pieces of metal that hold the brake pad tight to avoid rattling.
Other hardware that’s missing, out of alignment or rusted can also be the culprit in squeaking brakes.
When to get squeaking brakes checked
Squeaking brakes can sometimes be normal, due to factors such as moisture, ice, rust, cheap brake pads, or performance brake pads compounds.
Being able to brake efficiently is a major part of vehicles safety. If your brakes are not working as good as they did, or it’s taking a lot longer to stop, have them checked.
If your brakes are spongy or not very responsive, have them checked.
When the squealing or squeaking noise is unbearable, definitely have your brakes looked at.
Fremont Motor Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM repair shop, in Casper, WY.
Less than a 1/4″ of pad thickness left? It’s time for new pads.
Finally, if you aren’t sure but are are still concerned, its better to be safer than sorry when it comes to brakes. As mentioned earlier, most reputable auto repair shops will check them for free.
Every year motorists around the country are required to get their vehicles inspected, which includes periodic safety inspections of things like brakes. Here in Wyoming vehicle owners are NOT required to obtain state brake inspections, so it’s important to check your brakes regularly.
A good rule of thumb is to get the brakes inspected every year.
In the scheme of things brakes almost go unnoticed, until you really need them and play a significant role in bringing your vehicle to a halt.
During your day to day commutes, several tell-tale signs warn you that you may need to get your brakes checked.
Here are the Seven Signs You May Need To Get Your Vehicle’s Brakes Checked.
Dashboard Brake Warning Light Displays
Hear Weird Noises Coming From The Brake
The Vehicle Takes Longer To Stop Than Normal
The Vehicle Swerves Or Weaves When Braking
Brake Pedal Feels Mushy Or Different When Braking
The Vehicle Vibrates When Slowing Down
Brake Fluid Is Low Or Drains Quickly
Brake warning lights
Dashboard Brake Warning Light Displays
Brake warning lights are the easiest and most efficient way to get information about your brakes. Once the vehicle onboard diagnostic system notices something isn’t right, a warning brake light will display.
If a brake warning light does illuminate, refer to your owners manual for instructions on what to do. When a brake issue occurs, you may need to bring the vehicle to see a qualified mechanic.
Note: When in doubt – Get a professional to look over your brakes by going to your dealership or a brake specialist.
Unusual Noises
When your vehicle starts to make unusual noises while driving it is a clear sign that your car needs an inspection.
Worn out brakes will often make shutter noises or squeals when the brakes are applied. Usually, these noises have to do with brake pads hitting the rotors at irregular intervals.
Continuing to drive with bad brakes can cause severe damage to the rotors as well as create safety issues.
When you hear a high pitch noise, get your brakes checked right away to avoid severe damage.
Watch out for changes in weather and braking distances.
Vehicle Takes A Long Time to Stop
In cases where your car takes longer than usual to stop, you may need to consider getting your brakes checked by a professional.
When pressing down on your brakes, if it takes longer than average to stop or come to an immediate halt, you may have a brake problem.
Be aware that changing temperatures and precipitation can significantly affect stopping distance.
Vehicle Swerves or Weaves
Brakes are supposed to bring a car to a halt in a straight line rather than making the car weave or swerve to one side. If you experience a vehicle swerving or weaving when trying to stop, pull over to a safe area and call for a tow truck.
In most cases, the brakes are being applied unevenly to one side of the vehicle or wheel. It’s a sure sign you need to get your brakes serviced right away.
Brake Pedal feels Mushy or different when braking
If you notice your brake pedal feels a little off, it might not be your imagination. Over time, like any other vehicle part, brakes get worn and at some point need to be replaced.
Changes in brake pressure is usually a sign that the brake pads might be wearing out.
As always, when in doubt, get the brakes checked.
Vibrations
If you experience vibrations at any point when applying brakes, you need to get your brakes inspected.
Frequently vibrations are caused by disc/rotor or drum surface issues. A simple check by a competent mechanic should be able to determine the problem.
Don’t forget to check your brake fluids.
Check your Brake Fluids
A simple yet clear sign of brake issues is leaking or low brake fluid. If you find that there are wet or moist spots left by your car, you may have a fluid leak. Brake fluid tends to look greyish or clear in color and has an oily feel to it, sort of like cooking oil.
One easy method to test for a leak is to place cardboard under the engine overnight and in the morning check for any oily substances. If there is, it could be an oil leak or brake fluid. In any case, it would be wise to get the vehicle inspected.
Besides all the above getting your brakes replaced on time and according to schedule maintenance is the best way to avoid potential brake issues down the road.
“Born and raised in Sheridan, Wyoming and have lived here for over 30 years.”
How long have you worked in the Auto Industry?
“I have been in the auto industry for just under a year.”
What is your favorite part of the job?
“My favorite part of my job is to capture people’s excitement. To see their faces light up when they get to drive their new vehicle home from Fremont Motor Sheridan Toyota.”
Biggest achievement?
“My biggest achievement is being the best father that I can be to my wonderful 7-year-old daughter.”
Growing up as a child, what did you want your career to be?
“When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a major league baseball player.”
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
“In my free time, I enjoy all sorts of sports including golf, tennis, basketball, and bowling. I also enjoy spending as much time as I can with my daughter.”
Roger Federer serving at a Tennis match in Wimbledon, UK. Photo: Zoe Reeve
What kind of music do you like?
“I literally like every genre of music except for death metal. My music collection is quite diverse.”
How about your favorite food?
Greg says, “My favorite food is a filet mignon with lobster tail.”
Do you have a favorite movie line?
“It would have to be “well, that’s just like… your opinion, man” from the Big Lebowski.”
Given the chance, who would you like to be for a day?
“I have always been a huge fan of Roger Federer. Such a gentleman of a champion, and such a great sport. Not to mention the greatest tennis player in history. Plus, he seems to have a happy life completely figured out, with a wonderful wife and two different sets of identical twins.”
Tell us about your first car?
1980 Toyota Celica, Photo: Toyota
“My first car was a 1980 Toyota Celica hatchback coupe. Five-speed manual. Rear wheel drive. My friends nicknamed it Whiplash, for when I was struggling to learn how to drive it.”
If money was no object, what car, truck or vehicle would you own?
“My dream car has always been a Ferrari 550 Maranello.”
Photo courtesy: Newspress USA
If you’d like to get in touch with Greg Legerski, you can reach him at (307) 206-2595 or email him.
FordPass is a smartphone app which allows a lot of extra features, and information on the vehicle. It’s almost comparable to a reduced size owners manual but better and more interactive. There are also badges to earn and perks to be had.
How much does FordPass Cost?
The FordPass App is free and can be downloaded onto your smartphone. For iPhone users find the FordPass app in the Apple App store. Also compatible with Apple Watch.
It even allows control of the vehicle remotely (when SYNC Connect is also active).
FordPass app features include;
Set a preferred Ford dealership.
The ability to schedule maintenance and servicing through the smartphone app with your preferred Ford dealership.
Find a Ford dealership.
Keep track of past and future services.
View warranty information and schedules.
Access your Ford Credit Account (if financed through Ford Credit).
Contact Ford Credit representative (if applicable).
Contact roadside assistance.
Call, chat or email for a Guide.
Browse tutorials
Get directions and prices to fuel locations.
Save preferred fuel stations.
When using alongside an active SYNC Connect account, the smartphone app also allows;
Remote start of the vehicle
Lock and unlock the vehicle remotely
Vehicle location
FordPass App with Sync Connect allows remote start from your smartphone. Photo: Ford
How to activate FordPass
To activate FordPass;
Download the FordPass app. For iPhone download from the App store, and for Android phones, the Google Play store.
Enter your Ford Owners account login information. (If you do not already have a Ford Owners account, you can set one up within the app at this point).
Create a touch ID or 4 digit pin for security.
Enter your vehicle information, by selecting My Vehicles, Add Vehicle, enter your vehicle VIN number (or scan it). Click here to find out how find your VIN if you’re not sure where it is.
Select Finish.
Activate.
FordPass activation can also be done from the Vehicle Controls card in FordPass.
What is SYNC Connect?
Sync Connect allows more connectivity between your Ford vehicle and your smartphone. Using a 4G LTE modem in the vehicle, you can; remote start the vehicle from your phone (using FordPass App), set a remote start schedule, check fuel levels, and get vehicle health reports.
Members who own Ford vehicles equipped with SYNC Connect can use FordPass to access vehicle features such as remote start; lock and unlock; fuel, oil and battery levels and tire pressure readings.
For some 2018 and newer Ford vehicles, you can turn your vehicle into a WiFi hotspot. This allows for connection of up to 10 devices. This WiFi service requires a data package through AT&T.
On WiFi-equipped vehicles, there is a complementary 3GB (or 3 months whichever expires first) trial upon purchase of the vehicle.
Is Sync Connect free?
Yes. For the first 5 years from the original first sale of the vehicle. For example, if the Sync Connect equipped vehicle is purchased in 2019 the service will be active until 2024.
Sync Connect is available on select 2017 and newer Ford models.
How to activate Ford Sync Connect
If your vehicle is equipped with For Sync Connect, follow the directions in the video above or read to find out how.
Set up FordPass as explained above.
After activating, go to your vehicle and start it.
A pop-up message will appear on your SYNC touchscreen, touch Allow.
Remote start features will shortly appear on the FordPass app home screen on your phone.
Revealed earlier this year in Jan at the North American International Auto Show, the first 2019 RAM Heavy Duty truck for Fremont Motors arrives today. Stock no. 11D19247.
2019 RAM 2500. Photo: Jeremy Mascarenas
Pricing became available only 2 weeks ago for the new trucks. The first one of many arrives at Fremont Motor Casper.
What is it you ask and how does it compare to 2018’s?
It’s a…
2019 RAM 2500 Big Horn 6.4L
This 4×4 crew cab in Diamond Black Crystal Pearlcoat comes with the 6.4-liter gasoline engine in a Big Horn trim level. Centre console (5 seats), 3.73 rear axle ratio and 6’4 box.
6.4-liter engine is revised
With cylinder deactivation, variable valve timing, and a new TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, the truck is optimized for fuel economy and performance. With over 40 shift maps, the transmission uses shift-by-wire technology.
New Transmission
This new transmission allows for a rotary e-shift dial, allowing more space within the driver cabin area.
4×4
This 2019 RAM 2500 comes with a BorgWarner (BW 44-46 ) part-time transfer case allowing electronic shifts.
New Frame
2019 Heavy Duty RAM trucks feature an all new frame. Reducing overall weight by 143 lbs, the trucks use 98.5% high strength steel, but uses aluminum for the hood and lightweight materials for other parts.
Also new for 2019 RAM Heavy Duty models is active noise cancellation, anti-vibration devices and acoustic glass for a quiet ride.
Exterior
Newly designed body panels include the bumper, grill, tailgate. Headlight designs also new. The grill is 30% larger grille for maximum airflow. Hood designs are also new and made from aluminum.
All new grille design and headlights for the 2019 RAM Heavy Duty. Photo: Jeremy Mascarenas
LED Fog Lamps, LED Tail Lamps and LED reflector headlamps
Mirror-mounted aux reverse lamps (new for 2019)
Trailer Reverse Guidance (new for 2019)
Surround view camera (new for 2019)
Cargo camera
Power heating and folding mirrors
Blind–Spot and Cross–Path Detection
This particular truck has the snow plow prep package.
Technology
The 8.4″ touch screen comes with the latest UConnect 4C NAV on this particular truck, along with a 9-speaker Alpine audio system.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also integrated providing easy smartphone accessibility through apps. Making calls, texting and playing music are a tap away on this 2019 RAM 2500.
2019 RAM 2500 Big Horn Interior. Photo: Jeremy Mascaneras
Also included is;
5–Year SiriusXM® Traffic™ Service
5–Year SiriusXM® Travel Link Service
1–Year SiriusXM® Guardian Service
SiriusXM® Traffic Plus
SiriusXM® Travel Link
Standard equipment
Other standard equipment includes; Advanced Multistage Front Airbags Supplemental Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags Supplemental Side–Curtain Front and Rear Airbags ParkView® Rear Back-Up Camera, 3.73 Axle Ratio, Electronic Stability Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill Start Assist, Traction Control, Dampened Tailgate and Trailer Sway Damping.
Big Horn trims are middle of the line. The interior is completely redesigned and this truck features premium cloth bucket seats. Front seats are heated and a newly designed center console design has 12 different storage configurations.
Truck payload and towing capacity—you’ve probably heard these two phrases at some point. Maybe an advertisement for a new Ford Super Duty F-250? Or when a salesman told you the towing capacity of a truck. These two concepts are so common that understandably, many drivers think they mean the same thing. In reality, they’re quite different. Using them interchangeably could even be costly, leading to damage to your truck.
Read on to get a better understanding of these truck terms and why it is necessary that you know the difference between the two.
Truck Payload and Towing Capacity Defined
Understanding towing capacity isn’t tricky. The meaning of the 2 phrases can be drawn from looking a little deeper at the two individual words.
Maxing out a Truck’s Payload. Something you shouldn’t do.
Truck Payload: Truck payload is all about carrying. Not carrying behind, but carrying inside. Payload refers to the weight of all the extra stuff you might pile into your vehicle or its bed. Whether it’s 500 lbs. of junk you’ve thrown in the backs or the weight of your buddy in the passenger’s seat, if it is inside and not behind the vehicle, we are talking about “Truck Payload”.
Towing Capacity: (pulling something behind) + capacity (max amount) = how much weight a truck can safely pull behind it.
Don’t forget, a trailer hitch has its own towing capacity (Hitch Class). This hitch is a triple ball mount with a hook. Photo: L Baures
Note: Pulling (behind) is the keyword with this definition.
What’s With the Mix-Up
The reason so many of us confuse the terms truck payload and truck towing capacity is that they are based on the same two things: the truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), suspension, and how durable its frame is.
Also, the word carrying can make things confusing. Technically, when you are towing a load behind your truck, you are ‘carrying’ it. This is why it is important to remember that it is what is inside, not following, that payload refers to. Imagine a mother carrying her child in her arms versus pulling him behind her in a wagon. This is the difference between payload and towing.
Payload vs. Towing: Real Numbers
Going back to the Ford Super Duty mentioned above. Can you guess the towing capacity of this truck? 21,000 pounds. But what about the truck payload? This number comes in at just 3,550 pounds. Huge difference, right?
Payload vs. Towing makes sense when we go back to the “carry inside” versus “pull” explanation. A mother might have trouble carrying a 30-pound toddler in her arms for a long distance, but pulling him in a wagon wouldn’t be that difficult.
What Does It Matter?
Now that you know the difference, you might be asking, what does it matter? For starters, ignoring either the towing or payload capacity is one of the worst mistakes you can make. Both towing capacities and truck payload limits are set by manufacturers for a specific reason. Staying under the limit stops you from doing serious damage to your vehicle. If you don’t know these limits, how can you prevent these costly mistakes?
Finding your vehicle’s towing capacity is as simple as knowing the VIN. Payload limits can be calculated using simple math. You start with your vehicle’s gross weight rating. Then subtract the curb weight (how much it weighs on its own with nothing extra added). Check out the formula below:
Voila! Now you know the difference between towing capacity and payload. As well as how much you can carry behind your truck and in its bed. Remember, your vehicle has these limits for a reason, so don’t exceed them.
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