1996 Dodge Stratus Brake Squeal

96 DODGE

MEMBER
1996 DODGE STRATUS
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
166,000 MILES

I have a 1996 Dodge Stratus ES 2.4 liter 4 cylinder w/ABS. I have done many repairs over the years including complete brake jobs. Recently, an intermintant squeak has shown up on the drivers side front wheel. When I depress the brakes it will sometimes disapear and sometimes not. At lower speeds (20-45) it seems to be more pronounced. AT highway speeds (65+) it's not as bad. I've cecked the pads and although they are worn, they still have usable life. Do you have any thoughts on what might be causing this and a repair solution.

Thanks for the Assist.

5 Replies

FIXITMR

MECHANIC
9,990 POSTS

You could try putting slot(s) in pads if they dont already have them? Some wider pads come with a vertical slot in the middle. This lessons the long surface area which is more prone to squeaking.I use a hack saw and go down about 3/4 of pad thickness.

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Monday, January 31st, 2011 AT 12:50 AM

FIXITMR

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You also need to make sure it's not your wear warning tab on pad that is making he noise.

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Monday, January 31st, 2011 AT 12:53 AM

HMAC300

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Also ifit is semi metallic pads they tend to squeak more than others.

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Monday, January 31st, 2011 AT 12:55 AM

96 DODGE

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3 POSTS

The pads already have slots. The squeek seems to be there when the brakes are "not" dpressed and car is in motion. When I depress the brakes, the squeek disappears then returns when I take my foot "off" the brakes. I'm wondering what would cause the squeek (squeel would be a better desc.)While the brakes are not engaged.

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Monday, January 31st, 2011 AT 12:57 AM

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

From what you describe it has to be your squealers or brake warning. That s what happens when they are working. Take a wheel off and look and see if the squealer is touching the rotor, it probably is.