I just bought a used 1999 2.3 CL and found that when I brake on high speeds, the steering shakes a bit. I didn't buy it with any warranty, so I can't take it back to the seller.

I want to take it to a mechanic and was wondering if anyone here has recommendations for mechanics around New York City/NJ. Are there any general considerations I should keep in mind while choosing someone to repair my car? I'm sort of a newbie and am probably not in a position to evaluate if someone is taking me for a ride. For example, I know that a comon cause of the problem is that the brake motors are warped, but I wouldn't know how to determine whether that is in fact the problem, and if there are no other problelms.

I'd appreciate any suggestions!

 

Just change the brake ROTORS...its the number 1 cause for that symptom. it wont be too expensive either and your have good brakes.

 

better yet, if they are still thick enough, have them resurfaced, It will be much cheaper. I'm just making an educated guess here but i doubt you'd know how to remove your tires let alone take off the front break rotors ) If you need help just ask here.

 

hi there,

I know of a great mechanic in northern NJ if it helps (and isn't too late at this point). He's worked on my car and family cars for well over a decade now. I moved to California a few years ago and was sad to leave him. I don't trust my car to anyone else now. If you still need his info, drop me an email - sara.ventre@gmail.com.

S

 

Depending on severity of the shaking/vibration, I have had significant improvement by simply cleaning the rotors and installing new pads. The vibration didn't disappear, but was tolerable w/ worst performance under heavy braking. It depends on how tolerant you are of a little vibration. Some can't stand any and insist on turning rotors or replacing them at the first hint of vibration. My 97 TL, is fine under all but heavy braking, and I can live w/ that for now.

I would suggest investigating shops that specialize in Honda/Acura vehicles, look for at least 10 yrs in business, and good reputation w/ local BBB. They should be responsive to BBB complaints and actively attempt to resolve them. Not many shops will have a perfect record as some customers are almost impossible to please.

good luck

 

this thread is sooo old and nice first post sara

 

Me too, I'm looking for a good mechanic in the northern NJ area. Close to route 4. Sara if possibble could you give us the name and address of that shop you know of?

I'm having the same problems with my CL and the vibration when braking . But i'm waiting to do a brake job on mine to find out about the rotors. I'm thinking changing the pads, and replacing or re-surfacing the the rotors would help.

Q

 

I have that vibration as well, not terrible, but it's there. Additionally my rotors are completely shot. I had someone other than my mechanic do them. He installed the brake pads wrong and now I am at 0% for the rear brakes and 30% for the front. Pep Boys has rotors for $24 each out here in CA. Also had EGR Valve replaced. It's been a fun weekend with my CL. :-)

Waiting for the information my mechanic from back home. Should have it within an hour or so.

 

Clearly, I suck. My mechanic never got back to me with his information. He STILL hasn't...... I apologize.