We have a grinding noise coming from the front of our 2003 EX 4dr 4cyl. It seems to be coming from the LF. I can not make it go away permanently.

First time the noise occurred I replaced all four pad sets and rotors. The pads where almost worn out anyways, rotors were in so so shape. The noise went away for a while but eventually came back. Last time it happened I found some minor cracks in the pad which were causing the noise according to a local Honda repair shop. I replaced just the pads this time at their recommendation since the rotors were in excellent shape. Noise went away for a short while and then came back. I checked the pads yesterday and there are no visible cracks on the revised pads. Rotors look great also.


How do I make this super annoying noise go away? It is driving me batshit.

 

change pad compound.

 

Well that was a super vague response. How do I know I won't have the same problem with another set of pads? Can you give a recommendation of a specific model of pads that will cure the problem?


I have had three different sets of Honda pads with different part numbers. Why is it the problem specific to 3 different sets of Honda brand pads?

 

Nothing? No one has experienced this?

 

I had the same experience on my 04 Accord. Grinding sound, approx 30% of the time I would come to a stop. That was with a set of I belive NAPA rotors and pads. Original brakes lasted about 90K with no grinding, but the rotors warped at about 50K so drove for 40K miles with a wobbly wheel while braking. When I replaced the rotor and pads with the NAPA products, they started grinding pretty much right away. Took it back twice, and of course it wouldn't do it when the mechanic drove it. They pulled everything apart and could not find anything wrong. After about 30K of living with it, I bought another set of rotors and pads from Autozone and they have been working fine for 15K, no grinding noise and no warped rotors yet. Only cost about $90 for everything and did the swap myself in about an hour.

 

If the noise is still there, check the brake pad clips. I used the new clips that came with the pads and had a constant grinding sound. Fished out the old clips, cleaned them up with a bit of b cleaner and they're good as new. And no more grinding against the outermost lip of the rotor.

 

I have had this grinding noise for some time. Honda Dealership said not a problem that Honda's just make that noise. The grinding sounds like the breake system is falling apart. Mostly happens in cold weather when it first starts up going down a slight hill. Don't really notice it after car gets warm. However, I have been lucky, only on second set of front break pads and 148K miles. Never replaced the rear breaks, but I do try not tailgate.