Brakes and Warranty

My MX5 is coming to the end of its warranty period.  I’ve just recently noticed that the brakes seem to stick on when its been sat for a while, so there’s noise and a ‘bump’ when I pull away, e.g. first thing in the morning.

Does anyone know if this would be covered by the warranty, or is it down to me?   [*-)]

Gill

Hi Gill,

Depends on the problem really. Perishable items are not covered under the warranty(i.e. brake pads, clutch facings, tyres etc…), however if the fault is mechanical(i.e. the brake calipers for instance) then you should be covered under the warranty according to my Mazda warranty bookletSmile.

Do you get a screeching sound when you brake? as this indicates worn pads. I know when i wash my Mark 1 or when it hasn’t been used for a few days sometimes the brakes ‘stick’ momentarily and i get a ‘bump’ as i move off, but this is entirely normal on cars with rear disc brakes and nothing to be concerned about.

Cheers

Ben

Hi Gill

This is often caused by light rusting on the rear pads, I never put the handbrake on mine unless it’s absolutely necessary. Reversing a couple of inches often frees them off without the bang.

Thanks Geoff, I’ll try that!

As Geoff says, it is likely to be the rear disks rusting.

Obviously, the ideal solution is to not park it when they are wet - often easier said than done, however, there are a few things you can do;

If you are washing the car, take it out for a wee run (even just around the block), just to dry them off

If the car is garaged, try to brake as you go in, again, to try to get water off

Parking with the handbrake off will stop the sticking, but will obviously not prevent the rusting of the brakes.