From doing searches on this forum, I understand you can get some squealing while braking from rust build up on the drums (or maybe discs). I noticed a squealing noise when braking slowly, while way over 7-8 mph. At that point, it's typically the regenerative braking, and not the conventional friction brakes. Is it possible the rust could be causing squealing under such circumstances? I've got a 2007 with about 19,000 miles on it and my wife tells me I drive like a granny - so I doubt it's premature brake pad wear. Thanks
A faint, high pitched whine, faint enough that you may not be certain it's there, is the normal inverter noise. Does it disappear at low speed, or get louder/worse? I assume that you know or can guess what it sounds like when a rock is stuck in the brakes :_>
If it's not the normal regenerative whine, then you could have rust, a stone, or a mis-adjusted rear drum. Have you tried shifting into N and then braking? That will take regeneration out of the question. You can also use that technique to clean the brakes. Find a clear stretch of road, take it up to 40 or so, shift into N, and then brake until you slow down to 10 or 20. Repeat that a few times and see if the noise goes away. The rear drums are self adjusting, but it is possible for the adjustment to get messed up. Have you suffered a reduction in fuel mileage? Tom
