Hey,

I did a search but couldn't find anything...I'm not even sure what to call it, so sorry if this has been covered before.

I had a brand new 2000 Accord and after a year or so of hard driving I found the brakes would shake VERY lightly 90% of the time. It was really subtle, but I could definitely feel it! I'm not a techie at all, so I'm not sure if this even makes sense but it felt like the pads were warped or there were tiny bumps in the road. It was pretty annoying so I brought it to Honda. They shaved my brakes...it didn't go away...they shaved them again...same problem. So I gave up.

My 2008 TSX, after 1 year of hard driving (more on the moving side of "driving" than on the braking side--I brake pretty normally), is now exhibiting the same problem.

Any ideas??

thx guys.

 

This is a common issue with the OEM brakes. Whether it's warped rotors or excess pad material build up on the rotors, they can produce wobble or steering wheel shake upon braking. Some members have gotten their rotors resurfaced, but only had the issue temporarily resolved. Other members have replaced the OEM rotors and pads with aftermarket goodies, and the issue has been resolved....like myself.

Now if your steering wheel shakes upon driving and not braking, there are many things to consider - alignment, tire and wheel balance, wheel bearings and axles, etc.

 

thx!

How much money are we talkin' for this problem to go away?

 

Prices for resurfacing varies. It's much cheaper to have this done outside the dealer. I saw a local Auto parts store advertise resurfacing for $24/axle. But remember, this will be a temporary fix and the problem will return.

To replace rotors and pads with aftermarket ones can be pricey, but check this out...to replace with direct OEM rotors and pads can cost as much, if not more, than better performing aftermarket rotors and pads. Excelerate and Mr. HeelToe are our official forum vendors. Give them a PM and they can help you select aftermarket goodies to suit your needs.

For about $500, you can get good aftermarket rotors and pads for all 4 corners.

 

I fixed my fronts for $160 out the door (rotors, pads, clips) and it completely stopped the shaking. Autozone offers a hassle free 2 year warranty on the rotors and a lifetime pad replacement for the brake pads

I don't recommend having the rotors turned, they are already thin as it is. I made the mistake and had them done, lasted 6 months of very little driving (5000 miles) and it was shaking worse than before.

 

Take it to Acura and have it repaired under warranty. The TSB came out in 2007 but perhaps it applies to your 2008 as well. Can't hurt to give them a call and see what they say.

Service Bulletin #07-021

April 19, 2007
Applies To: 2004-07 TSX – ALL
2004–07 TSX: Front Brakes Judder

SYMPTOM
The driver feels a vibration through the steering wheel when the brakes are applied normally.
PROBABLE CAUSE
The front brake pads have worn the discs unevenly.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Refinish the front brake discs, and install new front brake pads.

 

I discovered this same problem w/ my car tonight as I was slowing down on the freeway numerous times. Never noticed it in-town or suburban driving yet though, so I think it's still fairly minor in my case. I'll be shopping around for new front rotors and pads this summer. Why does this kind of thing always happen one month after my local parts guy has his annual 20% off sale?

FWIW, I bought my car w/ 71K km on it and new OEM brakes on all 4 corners were installed. I'm at 142K km now and have only had to replace the rear pads (rotors were fine), until now. Not too shabby to get 71K on my OEM brakes considering I drive 90% city!