Random Brake Squeal at Low Speeds

[Pittdawg]

Only occasionally, like a couple times a week, I have what sounds like brake squeal when I brake to come to a stop but only when braking from a very low speed (i.e. most often occurs in parking lots). Anyone else experience this? Is it like likely just the pads being worn out or is there something more specific to this model?

[Adplaya]

Only occasionally, like a couple times a week, I have what sounds like brake squeal when I brake to come to a stop but only when braking from a very low speed (i.e. most often occurs in parking lots). Anyone else experience this? Is it like likely just the pads being worn out or is there something more specific to this model?

Always, literally always happens when I'm in traffic.

[QUBE5]

I have the same issue. It mainly happens to my Q5 when I'm braking from 25 mphish - 0mph(even if the braking is slow or gradual). Especially if I'm in a drive thru or bad traffic.

I contacted Audi of America and they said it is a common issue and normal for Audis. They stated that the brakes would not be under warranty unless it was a really bad issue related to a production flaw. I provided them with a Recall TSB #, but they said our vehicles don't qualify for that. However, you may get lucky at the dealer if they are prepared to write off the cost themselves. So, AoA won't help, but a dealership may if they value your business.

Since the brakes on our Q5s are Brembo, this is a common complaint about Brembo brake kits. They tend to get loud at low speeds, but work great at high speeds.

[Pittdawg]

I suspected it was a model line related issue due to the very specific circumstances it crops up in, thanks for the replies confirming my suspicion!

[ABOMB]

I thought this was only me. I recently had my brake pads changed out and with this new set i get the exact squeal at low speeds. Didn't have an issue for some reason with the factory pads.

[bomb39]

Anyone have any success swapping out pads?

Squeal didn't bug me initially, but drives me nuts to have a new-ish car and squeals like crazy around my friends and clients.

[supra_tt]

I've had this problem on both my previous cars. One 2011 A4 and another 2015 A3. When I complained to the dealer they recommended doing a couple hard brakes but that never helped. Both my cars were under warranty and they said they would "check them out" during service but nothing ever changed.

[QUBE5]

I have the same issue. It mainly happens to my Q5 when I'm braking from 25 mphish - 0mph(even if the braking is slow or gradual). Especially if I'm in a drive thru or bad traffic.

I contacted Audi of America and they said it is a common issue and normal for Audis. They stated that the brakes would not be under warranty unless it was a really bad issue related to a production flaw. I provided them with a Recall TSB #, but they said our vehicles don't qualify for that. However, you may get lucky at the dealer if they are prepared to write off the cost themselves. So, AoA won't help, but a dealership may if they value your business.

I brought this issue up again with another local dealership while I was having my yearly service, and after they were able to replicate the issue, they replaced all my brake pads @ 18K miles, free of charge. It solved my issue immediately and my service advisor said it was actually due to the metallic compound pads Audi is now using. So, you may want to try another dealership if one doesn't help you with this particular issue.

[simy]

Bumping this thread back up because my Q5 3.0T is squealing like crazy at low speed. Recently had my car taken in and the dealer said there is no TSB and nothing that could be done but they did recognize the problem. It was stated as normal due to "high performance" pads. I have 80% life left on the pads but am tempted to swap them out for something else that doesn't squeal.

I've had success with Akebono pads in the past and wondered if replacing with these pads would solve the issue? Rotors are in great shape.

[Placemotorsport]

Mine does the same thing mainly on the first slow stop after being parked for a while.

[simy]

Are you on factory pads? My squeal is unbearable. At slow speeds in traffic, when I start to hit the brakes is when it starts. I just purchased Akebono pads and will see if this resolves the issue.

[djn876]

Just take the pads out, clean everything, and use a good brake lube, likely just dirty.

Are you on factory pads? My squeal is unbearable. At slow speeds in traffic, when I start to hit the brakes is when it starts. I just purchased Akebono pads and will see if this resolves the issue.

[MSq5]

Just take the pads out, clean everything, and use a good brake lube, likely just dirty.

^ ^ ^

This.

Remove the pads. Clean with brake cleaner. Completely clean. Apply brake pad grease to the back side covering the entire plate. Reinstall. Noise will be gone.