Questions and Answers

Squeak, Squeak...

Q. I have a 96 Acura Integra with ABS (manual, 1.8L, 75,000 miles). Since a few months ago, I hear a squeaking noise from rear when I drive forward from parking or back out from parking (mostly from a cold engine). The noise is most likely produced from rear wheel areas. It is similar to the noise produced when people apply their brakes when the brake pads are worn out. However, I do not hear the noise while I am applying the brake nor while I am driving on the street. I have changed the rear brake pads about 25,000 miles ago from an Acura dealer. What might be the possible sources of the noise?

When I called the dealer and explained it to a service advisor, he told me that it may be from the rear brake pad indicators and that he will check the rear brakes. However, I have a feeling that he may not be able to pinpoint the cause of the noise. Do you agree with the service advisor? Do you think it is wise to check the brakes? I do not want to waste my money and time for nothing. What is a range of the life of a rear brake pad (in miles) under a normal driving condition?

Thank you.

A. I'd have to agree with the Service Advisor in this case. The noise is most likely the Audible Wear Indicators. If there is ever a doubt about anything concerning the brake system, it's always a good idea to have them checked. Better to spend a few bucks and find out there's nothing wrong than save a few bucks and find out something is wrong... the hard way.

The average brake pad will last about 25,000 to 35,000 miles depending on the driving. Someone who drives mostly highway will get more mileage out of them than someone who drives around the city. I had a customer who used her car to deliver newspapers and she only got about 7,000 miles on a set of pads. I would say that you are just about due for a new set of pads.