A common complaint received by workshops is a squealing noise coming from the braking system. This how-to guide from TRW Aftermarket addresses this issue and tries to find the cause by measuring the residual slip torque of the front axle brake system.
Noise emission
If the brake system generates noises without actuation of the brake pedal, the reason could be that the brake pad is not releasing far enough from the brake disc. This results in permanent contact between friction lining and brake disc. The friction generates vibrations which manifest as a high pitched squealing sound. This can be caused by a number of things, meaning a systematic approach is essential for troubleshooting.
If you notice any noises during the test drive, then lightly tap on the brake pedal when the traffic situation allows. If the squealing is gone, this is an indication that the noises stem from the brake system.
Diagnosis
Back at the workshop, put the vehicle on the brake test stand to identify where the noise originates from. Brake squealing often already occurs at low wheel speeds, so the speed of the roller brake tester is sufficient to generate the squealing.
Move the car onto the lifting platform and lift it up. Now rotate all wheels, one after the other. Do the wheels spin freely or are any of them difficult to rotate?
The residual slip torque has to be measured on the wheels that show resistance during rotation. To do this, remove the cover in the rim to access the axle nut below. Before the measurement, turn the wheel several times slowly and evenly in the direction of travel.
An indicator torque wrench is ideal for precise verification. This tool shows the torque required for
turning the wheel on a mechanical scale, on a dial or on an electronic display. To determine the residual slip torque, position the torque wrench on the axle nut with the correct socket. Turn the wrench slowly and carefully until the wheel starts turning. Compare the measured value to the information from the vehicle manufacturer. In this case, the value measured was 13Nm, and is therefore above the 10Nm specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
Tip: If you do not have access to this special tool, you can also use a conventional triggering torque wrench.
Set it to the maximum value of the specified residual slip torque and turn the nut carefully. If the torque wrench triggers (audible or noticeable click) before the wheel turns, the torque is too high.
Fixing the malfunction
If the residual slip torque is too high, uninstall the brake pads and clean all contact surfaces of the brake pads on the brake carrier and caliper with a wire brush and brake cleaner.
Depending on the brake system, check the guide pins on the carrier, the pistons of the brake caliper for corrosion and easy operation, as well as all dust covers for their perfect condition.
If specified by the vehicle manufacturer, apply a suitable grease (e.g. TRW – PFG110) thinly to the contact surfaces between pad and holder, or, if fitted, between pad and pad retaining springs.
Note: Do not apply grease to rubber-coated retaining springs, as this would affect the noise damping properties of the rubber coating.
Install the brake pads and check the residual slip torque again. Finally, take the vehicle for a test drive.
