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There are few sounds on the road as alarming as the sudden squeaking of your brakes. Fortunately, these sounds can be explained by the winter elements. While it’s important to be aware of the sounds your brakes are making to ensure overall safety, it’s also helpful to recognize the general effects cold weather has on your car. Since 1936, Dee’s Auto Care Specialists in Winona, MN, has happily shared their expertise throughout La Crosse, Onalaska, and Winona to keep their customers informed and secure in their automobiles.

Below, their expert technicians break down the different ways your brakes react in the wintertime:

  • Frozen Brake Pads & Rotors: When temperatures drop below freezing temperature, your brake pads and rotors can become victim of ice if you drive through a wet spot, or if there’s been snow and rain while your car isn’t running. This causes high-frequency vibrations that make those squeaking sounds when you first start up your car. As your brakes heat up, the ice will melt, and the sounds will eventually stop.

  • Dust-Covered Drums: If the squeaking sounds persist, it could be a sign that your brake drums are due for a cleaning. Over time, dust builds up on brake drums. With cold weather, any layer of ice that sits on top of a dusty drum can contribute to lengthy squeaks. Cleaning the drum will help stop the sound completely.

  • brakesRusted Brake Rotors: Everyone knows metal and water don’t mix well, and the same applies to snow and brakes. When your car is subjected to the elements overnight, a layer of rust can form on your brake rotors, which causes the brakes to squeal unpleasantly. Keeping your car in a dry environment, or cleaning the brakes frequently can help avoid this issue.

Whether you’re dealing with noisy brakes or engine issues as a result of the bitter winter weather, quality auto repair can be found at Dee’s Auto Care Specialists. With ASE-Certified technicians, you’re guaranteed a knowledgeable and helpful team member for any problem you have. They practice effective preventative maintenance to keep cars running smoothly in all seasons. Call 608) 782-2530 for the Lacrosse location, (608) 783-0500 for the Onalaska location, and (507) 452-1115 for the Winona, MN, location. You can also visit the website for more information regarding the auto services offered. 

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