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Squealing Brakes on 2018 CX-5 Grand Touring - What's going on?

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Paul Z. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:49 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring with about 60,000 miles on it. Lately, I've noticed a really annoying high-pitched squeal whenever I apply the brakes, especially at lower speeds or when coming to a stop. It's been happening for about a week now and seems to be getting a bit worse.

I haven't noticed any significant change in stopping power, but the sound is definitely concerning. Could it just be worn pads, or something more serious like warped rotors? I'm trying to figure out if this is something I can check myself or if I need to take it to a shop immediately.

Any advice or similar experiences with your CX-5s would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:49 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Brake squealing is a common issue with several potential causes. Here's a breakdown and what to do:

Causes of Brake Squeal:

  1. Worn Brake Pads: Most brake pads have a metal wear indicator that makes a high-pitched squeal when the pads are low, signaling it's time for replacement.
  2. Glazed Rotors or Pads: If brakes are overheated, the pad material can glaze, creating a hard, shiny surface that squeals. Rotors can also become glazed.
  3. Contamination: Oil, grease, or brake fluid on the pads or rotors can cause squealing.
  4. Poor Quality Pads: Some aftermarket pads are prone to squealing due to their material composition.
  5. Rust: Surface rust on rotors, especially after rain or washing, can cause temporary squealing until it's worn off.
  6. Improper Installation: If pads or calipers aren't installed correctly, or if anti-squeal shims are missing, squealing can occur.

Steps to Diagnose:

  1. Visual Inspection: Check your brake pads through the wheel spokes (if visible) or by removing the wheel. Look for the thickness of the pad material. If it's less than 3-4mm, they need replacing.
  2. Rotor Condition: Look for deep grooves, scoring, or uneven wear on the rotors. A slight lip on the edge is normal, but significant wear or discoloration (blue spots from overheating) can indicate issues.

When to See a Shop:

  • If the squealing is accompanied by grinding noises, a pulsating brake pedal, or a noticeable decrease in braking performance, see a mechanic immediately. This could indicate severely worn pads, warped rotors, or a caliper issue.
  • If you're uncomfortable inspecting the brakes yourself, or if the visual inspection doesn't reveal an obvious cause, a professional can perform a thorough brake inspection. They can accurately measure pad thickness, check rotor runout, and diagnose any underlying issues with calipers or other components. Addressing brake issues promptly is crucial for safety.
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