i purchased my 03 tl-s from acura in august and the brakes have never creaked until recently. i'm really puzzled why because i've never really hit the brakes hard. does anyone know why?

 

by creaking do you mean squealing while braking or just driving? It could be the pads are cheap replacements, are new and havent been seated properly, or may be worn out.

 

just when i brake

 

Have the brakes checked- it could be the low pad warning squeeler that hits the rotor when you apply the brakes.

 

I have a 04 6 speed and just hit 40K miles and am being told that my front brakes are down to less than 10% (pads)..is this possible for normal city driving that I do? Dealer in MN told me $350 as these are high performance brakes and parts is close to $200...any thoughts/suggestions much appreciated! Thanks

 

Front brakes do most of the stopping ~70% of the braking force goes there.
manual trans cars tend to be driven more aggressivley and wear out brakes faster.
Assuming you have the Brembo calipers in front- they are pricey pads and rotors!!
A private shop will charge less labor rate per hour and use better parts than OE

 

Replace your pads (assuming its the pads. Basing on how you described it, its definitely the pads). I advice replacing all four. Go to you local auto store, tell them the year, make and model. If you have the tools, do it your self, its very simple. Its a good learning experience. Search the A-zine or the Internet on DIY on brake pad replacement. Or if your too chicken to tackle the task (hehe jk), have it done on your local auto shop. Usually cost $25-$50.