Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Brakes Stupid Brake question......

My car has been shaking when I apply the brake 25mph or faster. Upon a visual inspection the brakes the only thing I can see is a small "~2cm" chip on the edge of the passanger side inner disk. I would not think that this little chip would affect the brake. Am I right? Also is there any reason new brake pads could cause this problem? Thanks

You stole my name!

Anyway, that small chip wouldn't be the cause of your problem. If anything, that would cause a vibration at higher speeds. I highly doubt this though. If the wheels were tightened down too tight, that can cause some warpage. It will subside when the wheels are tightened to the proper torque specs.

Did you install new rotors or have yours resurfaced when the new pads went on?

I once had a vibration that I thought was my front discs. I did the rear drums and rotated the tires. It drove me crazy. One night, just out of curiousity, I applied the e-brake slightly at about 30. The vibrations transfered into the car, they even came through the e-brake lever! I bought a new set of drums. Mine were getting thin, they were really rusty and looked ugly, and both the new Raybestos drums cost me $30. After I put those on, the problem went away, and my sanity returned.

Well... I had the brakes done about a month ago. The drums and rotors were all resurfaced and inspected. I also had the thought to try the "e-brake" as you called it, and had no vibration whatsoever. So whatever the problem is, it's in the front. As far as the torque on the wheels, they did put them on too tight but I retightened them a week or so after and the problem didn't go away.
Also... Sorry about the name thing. I'll be sure to get on to my parents about thier name choice.