What is the role of brake anti-squeal shims?

Brake anti-squeal shims serve a crucial purpose in the braking system by minimizing noise during braking. These shims act as a buffer between the brake pad and the caliper or the backing plate, dampening vibrations that can lead to squeaking or squealing sounds when the brakes are applied. When brakes are engaged, the friction created can cause the brake pads to vibrate, resulting in unwanted noise.

By using anti-squeal shims, manufacturers aim to enhance the overall driving experience by ensuring a quieter operation of the brakes. This not only helps in maintaining the comfort of the driver and passengers but also prevents potential misunderstandings about the vehicle's braking performance.

The other roles mentioned in the other options do not accurately represent the function of brake anti-squeal shims, clarifying that they are solely focused on noise reduction rather than influencing wear, fluid flow, or the integrity of brake lines.