Acura Integra Disc Brake Hardware Guide (1997-2002): Stop Noise and Uneven Wear
This guide covers the often-overlooked disc brake hardware that is essential for quiet, smooth braking on your 1997-2002 Acura Integra.
- Always replace your disc brake hardware when changing brake pads to prevent noise and ensure even wear.
- Verify you are buying for the correct model; Integra Type R brakes and hardware are different from LS, GS, and GS-R models.
- For daily driving, quality aftermarket brands like Centric and Raybestos offer the best balance of performance and value.
- Remember that the rear caliper pistons on your Integra require a special tool to twist them back into the caliper.
Is Your Integra's Braking Noisy or Uneven? It Might Be Your Hardware.
If you've noticed new squealing, rattling, or grinding sounds from your brakes, especially after installing new pads, the problem might not be the pads themselves. It could be worn-out disc brake hardware. For the 1997-2002 Acura Integra, these small clips and springs play a big role in how your brakes feel and perform. Over time, the original hardware corrodes, gets caked with brake dust, and loses its spring tension. This can cause brake pads to bind, wear unevenly, or vibrate, leading to annoying noises and a less effective brake job.
A Common Mistake: Type R vs. Non-Type R Brakes
The most important thing to know when ordering any brake parts for your Integra is the trim level. The high-performance Integra Type R uses completely different, larger brakes with a 5-lug wheel pattern. All other models (LS, GS, GS-R) use a smaller brake setup with a 4-lug pattern. The hardware kits are NOT interchangeable. This guide focuses on the non-Type R models.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
When you're doing a brake job, replacing the hardware is a cheap and easy step that ensures your new pads and rotors work their best. While OEM hardware from Acura is an option, quality aftermarket kits offer excellent performance for daily driving at a lower cost. Here’s a breakdown of the available brands.
Brand Tiers for Your Integra
- Good - Economy Choice (Carlson, Dorman): These brands provide functional, budget-friendly hardware kits that meet basic requirements. They are a definite upgrade over reusing old, rusty hardware and are perfectly suitable for a daily driven car on a tight budget.
- Better - OE-Quality (Centric, Raybestos, Dynamic Friction): These brands are highly regarded in the aftermarket for providing quality that is often equivalent to the original parts. For most Integra owners, a kit from Centric or Raybestos offers the best combination of quality, fit, and value. Forum discussions among Honda and Acura owners frequently recommend these brands for reliable, quiet performance.
Pro Tip: Always clean the caliper bracket thoroughly with a wire brush before installing new hardware. Any rust or debris left behind can prevent the new clips from seating correctly, defeating the purpose of replacing them.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
Disc brake hardware is one of the most affordable parts of a brake job. The small investment is well worth the benefit of ensuring a quiet and effective brake service.
| Part Quality | Price Range (Per Axle) |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket (Economy) | $6.79 - $15.00 |
| Aftermarket (OE-Quality) | $15.01 - $36.02 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace the hardware with my brake pads?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The old clips have been through thousands of heat cycles, which makes them lose their tension. They are also likely corroded and dirty. Installing new pads with old hardware is a common cause of brake noise and uneven wear. For the low cost, it's cheap insurance for a proper brake job.
Are front and rear hardware kits the same?
No. The front and rear brakes on your Integra are different sizes and use different hardware kits. You must buy a kit specific to the front or rear axle. The front brakes are larger and do most of the braking work.
My rear caliper piston won't go back in. What's wrong?
This is a classic feature of the 1997-2002 Integra. The rear calipers have an integrated parking brake mechanism. You cannot simply push the piston back in like you do on the front calipers. You must use a special brake caliper tool that simultaneously pushes and twists the piston to retract it. Attempting to force it with a C-clamp will damage the caliper.
Were there any recalls or TSBs for the Integra's brake hardware?
No, there are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Acura or the NHTSA specifically for the disc brake hardware on the 1997-2002 Acura Integra. Issues with hardware are considered normal wear and tear.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 45235-ST7-000 43227-S04-003 06431-S04-J00
Kit typically includes anti-rattle clips (abutment clips), pad springs, and sometimes guide pin boots. Materials are typically stainless steel for clips and EPDM rubber for boots.
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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.
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