The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

2016 HR-V Front Brakes: Excessive Dust & Squealing

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:48 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Honda HR-V EX-L

My 2016 Honda HR-V EX-L is producing an insane amount of brake dust from the front wheels. I mean, after a few days, my silver wheels are practically black. On top of that, I'm getting a high-pitched squeal when I apply the brakes, especially at lower speeds or when coming to a stop.

The pads and rotors were replaced about 15,000 miles ago with aftermarket parts. Is this normal for some brake pads, or is something wrong? The braking performance itself seems okay, just the noise and dust are driving me crazy.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:48 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Excessive brake dust and squealing from the front brakes of your 2016 Honda HR-V EX-L, especially after an aftermarket pad and rotor replacement, are common complaints but often point to specific issues.

Common Causes:

  1. Brake Pad Compound:
    • Semi-Metallic Pads: These often offer good stopping power but are known for producing more brake dust and can sometimes be noisier than ceramic pads. If the aftermarket pads are semi-metallic, this could explain the dust.
    • Low-Quality Pads: Some cheaper aftermarket pads might use compounds that generate excessive dust or are prone to squealing due to their material composition.
  2. Improper Installation:
    • Lack of Lubrication: If the caliper slide pins and the back of the brake pads (where they contact the caliper bracket) were not properly lubricated with high-temperature brake grease, metal-on-metal contact can occur, causing squealing.
    • Missing Shims: Brake shims (anti-rattle clips) are crucial for dampening vibrations that cause squealing. If they were omitted or installed incorrectly, noise can result.
    • Pad Bedding: New pads and rotors need a proper 'bedding-in' process to transfer a layer of pad material onto the rotor surface. If this wasn't done, or done incorrectly, it can lead to noise and uneven wear.
  3. Rotor Issues:
    • Uneven Surface: While less likely to cause constant squealing, an uneven rotor surface can contribute to noise.
    • Rotor Material: Some aftermarket rotors might not dissipate heat as effectively, leading to issues with certain pad compounds.
  4. Worn Caliper Hardware: Old or corroded caliper hardware (clips, springs) can prevent pads from moving freely, leading to noise.

What to Check/Do:

  • Inspect Pads/Rotors: A visual inspection might reveal uneven pad wear or scoring on the rotors.
  • Consider Ceramic Pads: If the current pads are semi-metallic, switching to a good quality ceramic pad will significantly reduce dust and often reduce noise.
  • Re-lubricate/Re-install: Have the pads and calipers inspected for proper lubrication and installation of shims and hardware.

When to See a Shop: While excessive dust and squealing aren't always a safety issue if braking performance is good, they are irritating. If the noise is persistent, or if you notice any changes in braking performance (e.g., pulsation, reduced stopping power), it's best to have a mechanic inspect your brake system. They can determine if the pads are simply a noisy compound or if there's an underlying installation or component issue that needs correction.

Menu

Help & account