My 97 Explorer brakes have become incredibly squeeky. I've pulled the wheels off all 4 corners and inspected them, there is tons of pad left and the rotors dont have any warpage or wear marks to indicate any metal on metal contact. The squeeking sounds like its metal on metal. Could they just start doing this because I skimped out on the higher quality pads and rotors? I dont want to start replacing parts for no reason, but I'd like to get this resolved. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

I went through three sets of pads before I got the squeak to an acceptable level. It finally went away after about 5K miles. I think it is just a matter of the materials used now for pads. Don't know if it matters but I did notice that the stock pads had a smaller surface area compared to the aftermarket replacements. It is my understanding that the squeak is from the brake dust.

 

I always use ceramic pads which eliminates the dust problem. They cost a bit more, but it's good not to have to deal with the dust or the squeaking.

 

Did you apply anti-squeal when you changed the pads? Also, are the spring clips in good condition and installed properly?