carnut65

Been getting intermittent brake squeal (in the front I think). After some searching here, seems this may be 'normal' especially in cold weather. This seems to match what I'm experiencing as we had a cold spell and after it warmed up a bit again, no squeal.

Haven't been through a brake service yet, so what are the indicators? Consistent squeal? What about the 'worn brake pads' (for fronts only) light, is it too late (ie damaged rotors) by the time that goes on?
thx to all.....

KevinGary

When the worn break pad light comes on you still have a few miles (1,500) before you have a problem. I have been able to get about 25,000 miles out of the pads on my 05 4.2. The rotors lasted about 55,000 miles.

tturner2b

The brake pad light only applies to the front brakes (and only to the pads not the rotors). There is a wire in the pad that will split when approximately 15% - 20% of the pad remains meaning that you can drive for a couple thousand miles before replacement. The rotors need to be replaced when they are warped but there is no light/warning for that...you just have to inspect them. In lieu of buying new rotors, some places will re-machine them (known as turning the rotors) which can save you some $$$.

The squeal you are hearing is coming from the rear pads I suspect. They are designed to squeal (no wire to break embedded in the pad) when they are worn. Again, there will not be any indication on rotor replacement - you just have to inspect them.