Disk brake rotor chronically warps (1992 Honda Civic Si)

We have a '92 Honda Civic Si with over 160,000 miles, and it is
experiencing a chronic brake problem.

Specifically, the passenger-side rear disk brake rotor continues to
warp even after it is turned. The driver-side rear disk has never
given us any problems. We noticed this problem after about 60K (if
memory serves me correctly), and turning and re-turning the rear
rotors then did not solve it -- the passenger-side rear rotor kept
warping. We eventually replaced the rear rotors with new ones, and the
problem reoccured shortly thereafter. It's annoying, and one which
the auto repair shops just didn't catch even though I pointed out the
problem history (they just took the "replace the rotos and pads and
all will be well" position.)

This tells me there is some problem (hub?, calipers?), but I have no
idea what it might be. Any ideas of what to check, and how? We'll
probably replace the rotors and pads ourselves, so I'd like to know
what to check for and how.

Thanks.

Jon Noring

 

Yes, it could be a worn hub, seized calipers, seized brake piston, or
maybe a damaged rim. A good mechanic should be able to find the problem
with a thorough inspection.

Are you taking it to the same mechanic each time? That's could be the
cause of a recurring problem.

 

sticky caliper

 

1. Balancing tires is also cheap. If won't balance get a new rim.
2. A 1/2" clicking torque wrench is on sale for $10 in California. Use it.
The above reduces vibration at high speeds, thus saving the rotors.

 

Have you checked the percentage of braking put to the rear wheels....maybe
there is too much braking power being sent to the rear wheels.

 

If it were my car I'd replace the rear calipers with quality
replacement parts and also the rotors. This means no thirld world
country rotors! Also replace the rear wheel bearings as at 160,000
miles you probably need them anyway.

And it would also be a good thing to know if you keep your tires
balanced and aligned but odds are it's a stuck caliper.