1998 Mercury Mystique Brakes make "creaking" soun

Tiny
BEN LEE
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 MERCURY MYSTIQUE
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 145,000 MILES
The best way I could describe the noise is a "creaking". It does not sound like a "grind" and not really a "squeek", since it is not high pitched, but more low pitched.

It only happens as I am comming to a stop, at a stop sign or traffic light, and I don't really hear it at the beginning of braking. It is probably the last 10-15mph before stopping completely.

The "creak" is not exactly constant within the last few seconds of stopping, it is slightly pulsed and is usually 4 or 5 "creaks" that are close together.

The brakes feel completley normal, and do not pull to one side or the other, and they don't feel weak or different. I had my brakes changed maybe 9 months ago (along with the master cylinder), so I know the pads/shoes are not bad.

Lastly, from the inside of the car, it sounds like it is the rear, right side wheel.

Thanks for your input!
Monday, June 7th, 2010 AT 4:02 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
Hi Ben Lee,

Thank you for the donation.

For rear brakes to groan/squeak etc, it could be due dust or other contaminants.

It is best to get them checked. Though the shoes might be good, any contaminants between the shoes and drum can cause abnormal noises.

Cleaning of the drum should solve the problem.
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Wednesday, June 9th, 2010 AT 12:15 PM
Tiny
BEN LEE
  • MEMBER
  • 66 POSTS
Okay, I was thinking it sounded just a little too rough to be only dirt and dust, but I will definitey try cleaning first before anything else.

Also, is that what "brake parts cleaner" spray is used for? I always see it in the store next to carb cleaner, but I have never used it. Can I spray it directly on all the brake parts and let it sit for a little while, then wipe off the excess?
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Wednesday, June 9th, 2010 AT 12:53 PM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
There is no need to wipe off as the brake cleaner would self dry after a short while. The complete instruction should be on the label.
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Thursday, June 10th, 2010 AT 7:43 AM

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