Uneven brake pad wear?

[OMX542]

I was gearing myself up for my 1st crack at changing the front brake pads, pulled one wheel off to have a look before starting on the weekend and noticed the inner brake pad on the frivers side is worn about 3mm more on one end than the other. And the worn end has gone right through the pad and was grinding the metal backing against the rotor, gouging the rotor in the process(Good excuse to get slotted rotors now though ).
I'd like to take a pic to help explain but my camera has packed it in.

Does this happen usually? I thought the brakes were supposed to squeal a bit when they were getting low? There is only about 1mm or so of pad left on the outer pad, thats what made me think of changing them. Seems strange to me... What do you guys think?

[adamjp]

I had the same problem when I changed mine at Christmas.

I think that you are missing one of the two springs that separate the pads when the pressure is off. Specifically, the spring on the most worn side.

I am off to Mazda on Monday to buy one to keep my pads apart.

[OMX542]

Yeap, you were spot on! Seems the mechanic who changed the pads for the PO didn't feel like puting the springs back on the new pads... Probably the same guy who didn't feel like putting the rain rail back in after changing the soft top

[zoomzoom]

Also check your slide bolts ar greased

[OMX542]

Did you have any luck getting hold of the springs Adamjp? My local dealer told me they are discontinued and not needed anyway...

Thanks for the advise zoomzoom, I put a little more grease on both slider pins so we'll see if that helps.

[adamjp]

OMX, your dealer is either lazy, stupid or both.

The springs can be purchased from Mazda, but unfortunately, you can only get them with a set of Mazda brake pads.

I am currently trying to source one or two. I will keep you posted.

[Garry]

I think MX5partsUK sells the antirattle clips and backing plates seperate to the pads. Might be worth a look on their website.

[OMX542]

Once again MX5MANIA to the rescue! I order a front set from them today. How much were they?..... I forgot to ask