Our favorite tweak for squeaks relies on a different principle: Instead of using shims or lubricants to decouple the pad from the caliper, stick the brake pad's backing plate to the piston or caliper ...

This is where brake parts cleaner comes in. It's an easy-to-use product drivers can typically spray where needed, a powerful solvent to break down any potentially harmful build-up on the brakes.

One manufacturer told NBC News that she had managed to push the existing 45% duty on her products onto American customers.