Hi everyone,
I have a 2010 Chevy Cobalt with 140,000 miles on it. The original brakes lasted an extremely long time but ever since I had those replaced (I've forgotten at what mileage) the rotors are warping within 4,000-5,000 miles, if I'm lucky to even get that far. I've never had issues with my own driving style with other vehicles or with the OEM brakes on this car. I've taken it to multiple mechanics who seem to think the brake system is fine, but I suspect the caliper(s) are dragging. It seems to heat up at high speed whether I use the brakes a lot or not (freeway). The last mechanic even installed Power Stop pads and rotors and while it did last a bit longer, the same problem persisted. The only thing I can think of now, is it replace the calipers too, which I'll probably tackle myself. Does anyone have any other thoughts?
Sure you could change the calipers. I would change the rubber flex lines while you're at it. They can cause drag.
Also make sure lug nuts tightened down properly. Not enough (or uneven) torque on those can also cause warping.
Hopefully whoever is doing your work is using a torque wrench to torque the wheel fasteners, not torque sticks, close but no cigar, or guessing with their impact wrench, Arrgh!
There could be a problem with your brake hardware. Make sure everything is clean and lubed properly.
Make sure that all rust is removed from the surface of the hub where the rotor mounts as well as the rotor mounting surfaces.
Great, thanks for the feedback! I'll check into those items.