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I have a 1997 Subaru Forester. In March 2007 I had new brake pads fitted.

Initially one wheel had a minor squeak, which gradually became a very loud noise. In June the mechanic checked them and told me they were fine.

In September the noise became quite a loud screeching noise, the mechanic again checked these, and told me he had "burred" the pads, which should fix the problem.

There continues to be a squeak, not quite so loud but annoying on a long trip, almost continuously in one wheel, and every now and again in another wheel. Is it normal for this noise to continue for such a long time, and will it go away?

Also, is it likely that there is damage to part of the braking system?

Your advice will be appreciated

Barbara.

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

I suspect the brake pads fitted are non genuine (not genuine Subaru parts). This problem is quite common and frustrating for both owner and repairer.

Non genuine pads are often used to help reduce the cost of parts in many different makes and models. One of the downsides is the pads are seldom a 100% fit, this can cause the pads to vibrate slightly which I suspect is the cause of your brake squeal.

Also, in the past brake pads contained asbestos which is no longer the case and for some reason asbestos brake pads did not suffer from the same characteristic.

There is no risk of this type of squeal causing any damage to the brake disc. If the noise is constant then you will need to discuss this with the garage and ask them to consider replacing the pads for another brand.

I would also recomend you ask another garage to have a quick look in case there is something obvious wrong that the mechanic has overlooked. Let me know how you get on.