Squeaking noises coming from the back of your car can be distracting and even embarrassing. Generally, squeaking noises from that area don't usually indicate that something serious is imminent, but it can mean that you might need repairs down the road. Unlike the front of the car, most models don't have a whole lot of moving parts in the rear of the car, so the problems can be tracked down more easily. Here are some of the common reasons why you may hear squeaking coming from the back of your car.

Squeaky brakes:

Squeaking noises coming from brakes are common whether you have disc or drum brakes. Drum brakes are more likely to make noises because they have more components which can break or stretch. On some cars, drum brakes need adjusting more often and are more likely to go out of adjustment and make noises. Springs and clips, which can affect the angle or movement of the shoes, can stretch or break. With disc brakes, wear indicators are designed to squeak loudly as the brakes wear down. Have your brakes checked regularly to rule out more serious problems with this important component.

Wheel bearings:

If you hear a repeated squeaking or a "whomp whomp" noise as you drive down the road, then it's possible that your wheel bearings are wearing down. With most modern cars, wheel bearings usually take years to wear down to the point where they begin to make noises and need replacing. However, there may be times where they will need cleaning, lubricating and repacking if that's possible for your make and model. Another sign that that will back up that you need new wheel bearings is that your tires will show unusual wear on the inside or outside of the rear tires.

Suspension issues:

Squeaking noises are very common as suspensions get older. Most passenger cars don't have a very complicated rear suspension, usually they have a single control arm and a pair of shocks. Trucks and higher-end performance cars may have additional components with sway bars, stabilizers, lifts and trailing arms. The more components your suspension has, the more likely it is to make noises. When it comes to squeaking and suspensions, much of it can be boiled down to the rubber bushings that cushion and allow movement of the components. When they wear or break apart, the metal components rub together and cause squeaking.

Squeaking noises in the rear of your car can be extremely annoying and may indicate that you need to have your car checked out. The problem could be minor, or may not need immediate repair, but it could indicate a problem down the road. If these noises are driving you crazy, have your car checked out by a qualified mechanic.