A Guide to Replacing Your 1986-1996 Acura Integra Disc Brake Hardware Kit
Ensure your brake job is complete and quiet by replacing this often-overlooked but critical component set.
- Always replace the disc brake hardware kit when changing brake pads and rotors on your Integra; it is inexpensive and prevents future problems.
- Verify the exact year of your Integra (Gen 1, 2, or 3) and whether you need a front or rear kit before ordering, as they are not interchangeable.
- Symptoms like rattling noises and uneven pad wear are directly linked to worn or seized brake hardware.
- For 1994-1996 models, a new hardware kit can resolve the common light braking squeak described in TSB B96-001.
Signs of Failing Disc Brake Hardware
On an older vehicle like the 1986-1996 Acura Integra, brake hardware is subjected to thousands of heat cycles, moisture, and road salt. This causes the metal to lose its spring tension, corrode, and wear out. Reusing old hardware during a brake job is a common mistake that leads to problems down the road.
- Brake Noise: A rattling or light squealing sound, especially over bumps or during light braking, is a primary symptom. This happens when worn clips no longer hold the pads tightly, allowing them to vibrate.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If you notice one pad is significantly more worn than another (inner vs. outer), it's often due to sticking or binding hardware. Corroded clips and guide pins can prevent the caliper from applying and releasing pressure evenly.
- Brake Drag: Worn hardware can prevent the brake pads from retracting fully from the rotor after you release the brake pedal. This causes constant friction, leading to overheating, premature wear of pads and rotors, and reduced fuel economy.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
When changing the brake pads and rotors on your Integra, replacing the hardware is a non-negotiable best practice. The cost is minimal compared to the problems it prevents. The kits are specific to the front or rear brakes and can vary by generation, so be sure to order the correct one for your car.
Pro Tip: Always verify your Integra's year and model (RS, LS, GS, GS-R). The 1986-1989 (Gen 1), 1990-1993 (Gen 2), and 1994-1996 (Gen 3) models can have different brake components. Front and rear kits are sold separately and are not interchangeable.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
For a vehicle like the Integra, aftermarket support is strong. You don't need to hunt down expensive and likely discontinued OEM hardware. Reputable aftermarket brands offer excellent quality.
- Premium (Raybestos, Dynamic Friction): These brands are often considered top-tier in the aftermarket. They typically use high-quality materials, like stainless steel, which offers superior corrosion resistance—a major plus for cars in wet or snowy climates. Their kits are known for precise fitment that meets or exceeds OEM specifications.
- Standard (Carlson, Dorman): These are the workhorses of the aftermarket world. They provide reliable, OE-quality hardware that gets the job done. While they may not always use stainless steel, their components are coated for corrosion protection and offer a good balance of quality and value for a daily driven Integra.
A Note on TSB B96-001: For 1994-1996 Integras, Acura issued a Technical Service Bulletin for a squeaking noise during light braking. The fix involved updated shims and special grease. A quality aftermarket hardware kit often includes these improved designs, making it a good solution for this known issue.
Estimated Costs for Disc Brake Hardware Replacement
| Part Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $7 - $36 |
| Shop Labor (as part of a brake job) | $150 - $300 |
Note: Labor costs are estimated for a standard brake pad and rotor replacement, as hardware is almost always replaced at the same time. Costs can vary by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to replace my brake hardware every time?
Yes. It's a cheap insurance policy. The old clips have been heat-cycled thousands of times and have lost their tension. Reusing them can lead to noise and uneven wear on your new pads and rotors.
What's the difference between front and rear hardware kits?
Front and rear brake calipers and pads are different sizes and designs, so the hardware that holds them is also different. You cannot use a front kit on the rear brakes or vice-versa. Always confirm you are buying the correct kit for the axle you are servicing.
Can I just buy the one clip I need?
Generally, no. The parts are sold as a complete kit for one axle (either both front wheels or both rear wheels). This ensures all related components are replaced at the same time for a balanced and complete repair.
What is a caliper slide pin and is it included?
Caliper slide pins allow the caliper to move and apply even pressure. They are a common failure point, often seizing due to rust. Basic hardware kits usually contain only the pad clips and springs. More comprehensive kits, sometimes labeled "abutment kits," may include new slide pin boots and grease, but the pins themselves are often sold separately. It is critical to clean and lubricate these pins during your brake job.
Technical Specifications
Kits are specific to front or rear axles and vary between Integra generations (1986-1989, 1990-1993, 1994-1996). Kits typically include anti-rattle clips and pad springs. More comprehensive kits may include caliper slide pin boots and abutment hardware.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Acura Integra: