Warped rotors

[mgrantom]

I've got a 2001 PT Cruiser Custom with 89,000 miles. At 50,000 or so miles, the front brake pads and both rotors were replaced. The day I drove off from the mechanic, the brakes were squealing. I first thought that they just needed to be broke in (the sound was obviously not metal to metal, just an annoying squeal). I continued to drive it (I was too busy to leave it at the shop again) for about 10,000 miles. It got so bad that I finally took it back to the shop. I told the mechanic that the squealing had been there from the beginning and the brake dust was really bad as well. He again changed out both rotors and replaced the pads with what I believe are ceramics. The brake dust disappeared and the squealing went away. Unfortunately at about 80,000 miles the brake pad began pulsating very noticeably upon applying the brakes. I removed the left front rotor myself (thinking that it was warped). I had to literally beat the rotor off with a hammer! It was practically welded to the hub assembly. I replace that rotor but stupidly did not replace the right one. The pads were almost like new and they didn't appear to be damaged or warped (I could put them face to face and they appeared flat). I did not replace the pads. The pulsating diminished considerably at first, but now it is back again. I'm thinking that the rotors I've been using are cheapos made in China and the ceramic pads are generating excessive heat, causing the rotors to warp. Has anybody else had this problem? Thanks for your response.

[gonzomania]

Welcome to the forum. That sounds like a question for MX-5

[MX-5]

Ceramic pads do not create excessive heat.

Cheap rotors are just what they are named.... cheap.
If I had my way, they would not even be available.
The OEM rotors are made in Mexico. The cheapo are Chinese. The top shelf rotors are Canadian or US built.

NEVER change any braking components on only one side!!!!!

[gamman]

I had this exact problem. First time everyone thought it "was just the rotors required turning". But it was more of a grinding than screeching...

After new rotors, it still did it, on the drivers side, as it had all along. So now what?

Well, its the thing (Flange) that the rotors bolt to is warped. My guy said it could have come from hitting curb, etc. Anyway, now that he replaced it, all is well, except I am way more broke. Front bearings had to be pressed in, etc. It is a big job, and kind of sucked.

[quicksilverdon]

MX-5 hit it - I was thinking that your calipers may have hung up causing excessive heat, but then the pads would've worn more....