How to Fix Squeaky Skateboard Trucks (2026)
Squeaky trucks are annoying but usually easy to fix. Here's how to find the source and quiet it in minutes with a skate tool and some wax.
Find the Squeak
Most squeaks come from the pivot cup (where the hanger's pivot sits in the baseplate) or the bushings rubbing on washers or the hanger. Lean the board side to side and listen. Then follow the fix below.
Quick Fix: Pivot Cup
- Remove the wheels.
- Loosen the kingpin nut and lift off the top washer and bushing.
- Pull the hanger out of the pivot cup.
- Wipe the pivot and pivot cup clean.
- Rub a little skate wax (or a dry lubricant) onto the pivot tip.
- Reassemble and test.
Spitfire Curb Wax
Skate wax; many skaters rub a little on pivots and bushings to quiet squeaks.
Check Price on AmazonFix: Bushings
- With the hanger off, wipe the bushings and bushing seats.
- Apply a thin layer of wax where the bushings touch the hanger and washers.
- Check for cracks; replace if damaged.
- Reassemble and set your tightness.
Troubleshooting
| Squeak Returns... | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Within days | Worn pivot cup | Replace the pivot cup |
| Only in turns | Bushings rubbing | Wax or replace bushings |
| With a clicking | Loose hardware or kingpin | Tighten; check for cracks |
| After wet rides | Washed-out lubricant | Dry, clean and rewax |
Other Noises and What They Mean
| Noise | Likely Source | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Squeak in turns | Pivot cup or bushings | Clean and wax, or replace |
| Grinding or rattling while rolling | Dirty bearings | Clean and lube; replace if it persists |
| Clicking | Worn or wrong-size washers | Replace the washers |
| Rhythmic ticking | Flat-spotted wheel | Rotate or replace the wheel |
| Creaking or vibration | Loose baseplate bolts or cracked riser | Tighten hardware; replace cracked parts |
| Loud roar on rough ground | Hard wheels | Softer wheels are quieter |
New Trucks Squeak More
New pivot cups and bushings often squeak until they break in. A little wax usually fixes it, and the noise tends to fade after a few sessions. If brand-new trucks keep squeaking, check that the pivot cup is fully seated in the baseplate.
What Not to Use
Avoid heavy oils or grease on bushings; they can attract dirt and some lubricants may degrade urethane over time. Wax or a dry lubricant is the usual choice.
Replacement Parts
Related: clean trucks, truck tightness and fix a broken skateboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my skateboard trucks squeaking?
Usually a dry pivot cup or bushings rubbing against washers or the hanger. Dirt can make it worse.
Can I use WD-40 on squeaky trucks?
It may quiet them briefly but can attract dirt and affect urethane. A dry lubricant like skate wax is a better choice.
Do I need to take my trucks apart?
Often yes, to reach the pivot cup and bushing seats, though it only takes a few minutes.
Should I replace bushings or pivot cups?
If they're cracked, worn or squashed, or the squeak returns quickly, replace them.
Is it safe to skate squeaky trucks?
Usually, but check for loose parts or cracks first.