jayare627

Did a search, came up with nothing figured I would post. 2004 TL 6sp with Brembos 106xxx miles. Took it in for the timing belt service, plugs etc. While it was in there got a call that I needed new front brake pads on the left side, said I only had 10% left!! Only have about 5k miles on the new pads and rotors. He said he would take a look at it. Called me back and told me that the drivers caliper is no good and is hanging up.

Never heard of this with a Brembo caliper, anyone else have this problem? And yes I have been doing the brake fluid changes as recommended. I have noticed that when applying the brakes they feel different in that they suddenly grab and almost jolt the car upon first application. Hard to explain. Thoughts?

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

Any caliper that contains moisture can deteriorate and cause the piston(s) to hang up. Hard to say without examining the caliper to see if any piston is sticking, but as I stated before, any caliper can have the problem. Most times it's the lower piston(s) as condensation resides at the bottom of the caliper. Sometimes, with floating calipers, the sliders can hang up, but with the Brembo units that certainly is not the cause.
If you installed the new pads, was there any resistance when trying to push the pistons back into their respective bores?
Also, when you changed the brake fluid, did you do both sides of the calipers to ensure all the "old" fluid was removed?

BradE

You don't have to replace the whole caliper, which is big $$$$. You can rebuild them, they make rebuild kits that are reasonably priced.

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

Prices aren't big$$$:
BENDIX Part # L47226IQ {LOADED CALIPER}
Front Left; Manual transmission; Contains Import Quiet pads $74.79

Rebuilding is certainly a lot cheaper, but much more time consuming. If you can do it yourself, save the money and rebuild, but if a shop is doing the work, it's easier and less expensive to replace.

bishop608

Interesting post. I have 04TL auto that I was on a mission to upgrade to Brembo on front. I acquired a set of used ones that appear to be in very good condition, thinking that I would just need appropriate rotors. Then in searching through other posts re Brembos on this site, I found a list of other parts I would need, i.e. knuckle, sheilds etc. So I'm still thinking no problem all told with new pads I would be out another $450 on top of calipers. Then I had my car in for service and the service manager says I would also need a different master cylinder.

Then I'm reading this post and think I'm hearing that I will also have to do a complete rebuild. So I'm about ready to quit on my project as too ambitious and expensive. As I am not an agressive driver, I was really more interest in upgrading the appearance than any need for higher performance. Any thoughts welcome.

jayare627

Thanks for the replies everyone. I took the caliper off and the bottom 2 pistons aren't moving at all when I press on the brake pedal.

Anyone have a link as to where I can get the rebuild parts? or even the new calipers for price comparisons?

Thanks!

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

Rock Auto has remanufactured units

Get the kit from the dealer:
ACURA TL PISTON SEAL & BOOT SET
Part# 01463-SEP-A51 $24.17 $18.13

If the pistons in one caliper are hung up, better rebuild the other side also.

When trying to remove the pistons, use compressed air and keep a rag or piece of wood between the piston so as they aren't damaged when they come out. If the tops come out too easily and the bottoms are stuck. build up the rag/wood to keep the top pistons secure in the bores, while the lowers have clearance to move when the air is supplied.

In lieu of an air compressor, never tried it using the actual brake system, but that may work, but protect the pistons.

spinxt

There is no way you're getting a Brembo caliper (with pads) for $75......

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

Bettre check their website:

BENDIX Part # L47226IQ {LOADED CALIPER}
Front Left; Manual transmission; Contains Import Quiet pads. 1 remaining $74.79

OR

A-1 CARDONE Part # 192893XB {[Color Coated Caliper w/Installation Hardware] Reman. - Return and Rebuild ONLY - Please Contact Customer Service for More Info}
Front Left; w/M.T. w/4 Pistons; OE Metal Piston;Powder Coated Black

$112.79