I am going to need to put on new brakes this spring on my '03 Type-S, and I am not sure if I should just get pads from the Acura dealer or if there are better pads on the market. If there really is a difference I would like to know. Also, I remember with my '83 Civic the rotors were warping soon after I machined them, and I took them then to the dealer who machined them on the car and they stopped warping. So maybe it;s a Honda/Acura thing. I have never had problems doing them off the car on my other (American) cars since then.

So, what's the best/cheapest way to do it myself? Can I just get them machined off the car or do I need to change the pads then drive it to someone to get them done on the car?

 

I would suggest either you do it all or have them do everything for you. replacing the pads is 90% done. OEM pads are good but pricey. You can get the same pads at local store for cheaper, just get ceremic pads should be fine. Just remove the pads, then a few more steps to remove the rotors, have them turned, then put them all back. do some search and you will find some details instructions.

 

Well I don't plan to not turn the rotors, I just have to figure out if I need to have a mechanic do it or if I can take the rotors to a car parts store to have them do it. I think I hear you saying there really is no need to have the rotors turned on the car.

I do own the service manual and it does say to have them turned with an on-car brake lathe, but perhaps that's just not necessary?

 

If they are grooved, any ridges, or any imperfections
Take them off and have them turned at a shop. then after thats done install teh new pads