Acura NSX 1990-2005 Brakes Specifications
Acura NSX 1990-2005

Acura NSX 1990-2005 Brakes Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the 1990-2005 Acura NSX braking system, including calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, and ABS system. Essential for maintenance and repair.

Updated

Brake System Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the brake specifications for the 1990-2005 Acura NSX. It includes detailed technical information, maintenance guidelines, and performance characteristics. Use this guide to understand the braking system, identify components, and perform routine maintenance. Refer to the sections below for specific details and troubleshooting tips.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'rotor size', 'caliper type', or 'brake fluid'. This will help you quickly locate relevant details within the document.

Navigate through the sections by selecting the major categories (e.g., 'Brake Components', 'Maintenance Schedule'). Within each section, expand the subsections to view detailed specifications and technical points.

Key Specifications

Front Rotor Diameter

298mm

Rear Rotor Diameter

280mm

Front Caliper Pistons

4-piston

Rear Caliper Pistons

3-piston

Recommended Brake Fluid

DOT 3

Available Specifications

Brake Components

This section provides detailed information about the key components of the Acura NSX braking system, including rotors, calipers, brake pads, and master cylinder. Understanding these components is essential for maintenance and upgrades.

Front Brake System
  • Rotor diameter: 280mm (1990-1996), 298mm (1997-2005)
  • Caliper type: 4-piston aluminum
  • Brake pad type: Feramic with wear sensor
  • Rotors are vented for improved heat dissipation
  • Calipers are equipped with dust seals for durability
Rear Brake System
  • Rotor diameter: 260mm (1990-1996), 280mm (1997-2005)
  • Caliper type: 3-piston aluminum
  • Brake pad type: Feramic without wear sensor
  • Rotors are solid with integral parking brake
  • Rear calipers are lighter to reduce unsprung weight

Brake Fluid and Hydraulic System

This section covers the hydraulic components of the braking system, including brake fluid specifications, master cylinder details, and ABS functionality. Proper maintenance of these components is critical for reliable braking performance.

Brake Fluid Specifications
  • Recommended fluid: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid (DOT 3)
  • Fluid capacity: 0.5 liters (approx.)
  • Change interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
  • Fluid level should be checked with the car on a level surface
  • Use only DOT 3 compliant brake fluid to avoid contamination
ABS System
  • First generation NSX (1990-1994) does not have ABS
  • Second generation NSX (1995-2005) features 4-channel ABS
  • ABS system reduces stopping distances on uneven surfaces
  • ABS components include sensors, modulator, and control unit
  • ABS warning light indicates system malfunction

Maintenance and Repair

This section provides guidelines for routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the braking system. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimal braking performance and safety.

Brake Pad Replacement
  • Front brake pads should be replaced when worn below 1/8 inch
  • Rear brake pads should be replaced when worn below 1/8 inch
  • Always replace brake pads in pairs to maintain even braking
  • Inspect rotors for warping or excessive wear when replacing pads
  • Apply brake grease to pad hardware to reduce noise
Rotor Resurfacing and Replacement
  • Rotors should be resurfaced or replaced if warped or scored
  • Maximum rotor wear specification: 0.001 inches runout
  • Replace rotors if thickness falls below minimum spec
  • Always clean rotors with brake cleaner before installation
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten rotor retaining screws

Brake Performance and Upgrades

This section discusses the performance characteristics of the NSX braking system and suggests upgrades for enhanced braking capability. Upgrading brakes can improve stopping power and heat management.

Stock Brake Performance
  • Stock brakes provide excellent stopping power for street use
  • Fade resistance is good for a car of its era
  • Heat management is improved with ventilated rotors
  • OEM brake pads strike a balance between noise and performance
  • Rear brakes are proportionally smaller to reduce nose-dive
Upgrade Options
  • High-performance brake pads for track use
  • Larger rotor kits for improved heat dissipation
  • Stainless steel brake lines for better pedal feel
  • Lightweight forged calipers for reduced unsprung weight
  • Carbon-carbon rotors for ultimate track performance

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
ventilated disc brakes
Configuration
front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Platform
NA series
Material
cast iron (rotors), aluminum (calipers)
Location
front and rear

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
282 mm (11.1 in)
Rear Rotor Diameter
276 mm (10.9 in)
Front Rotor Thickness
25 mm (0.98 in)
Rear Rotor Thickness
20 mm (0.79 in)
Front Caliper Piston Size
27 mm
Rear Caliper Piston Size
25 mm
Brake Pad Width Front
55 mm (2.17 in)
Brake Pad Width Rear
50 mm (1.97 in)
Parking Brake Drum Diameter
220 mm (8.66 in)

Materials

Rotors
cast iron with chromium plating
Calipers
aluminum alloy
Brake Pads
asbestos-free ceramic composite
Master Cylinder
aluminum with stainless steel brake lines

Features

ABS System
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
  • Electronic brake force distribution (EBD)
  • Brake assist function
Brake Cooling
  • Front rotor cooling ducts
  • Rear rotor cooling channels
  • Caliper ventilation system
Brake Adjustability
  • Driver-adjustable brake bias
  • Manual brake proportioning control
Lightweight Components
  • Aluminum calipers
  • Lightweight brake pads
  • Titanium brake pad pins
High Performance
  • High-friction brake pads
  • Optimized brake pedal feel
  • Reduced brake fade under heavy use

Safety Features

ABS Functionality
  • Anti-lock braking system
  • Electronic brake force distribution
  • Emergency brake assist
Brake Assist
Automatic emergency braking
Parking Brake
Mechanical parking brake with drum-in-rear configuration

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Low-dust brake pads
  • Noise-dampening brake pad shims
  • Vibration-isolating brake hardware
Smooth Operation
  • Progressive brake pedal feel
  • Consistent brake modulation
  • Low-pedal effort

Accessories

Brake Upgrade Kits
  • High-performance brake rotor kits
  • Upgraded brake pad sets
  • Brake cooling duct kits
Brake Fluid
  • High-temperature brake fluid
  • Synthetic brake fluid
  • Racing brake fluid
Hardware
  • Stainless steel brake lines
  • Titanium brake pad pins
  • Aluminum brake caliper spacers

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Service Items
  • Inspect brake pads
  • Inspect brake rotors
  • Check brake fluid level
  • Bleed brake system
  • Inspect brake lines
  • Inspect parking brake
Maintenance Notes
  • Replace brake pads when thickness reaches 1.5 mm
  • Resurface rotors when thickness variation exceeds 0.001 in
  • Replace brake fluid every 30,000 miles

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Powertrain components including braking system
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Perforation due to corrosion
Roadside Assistance
Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: 24/7 roadside assistance

Production Details

Manufacturer
Name: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Location: Tochigi, Japan
Quality Control: Process: ISO 9001 certified, Standards: TS16949 compliant, Testing: Dynamic brake testing,Thermal stress testing,Materials durability testing
Manufacturing Process
  • CNC machining of brake components
  • High-temperature heat treatment of rotors
  • Hand assembly of brake calipers
  • Dynamic testing of complete brake systems
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycling of brake materials
  • Low-VOC brake paint
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
Production Metrics
Units Produced: Total NSX production: 18,000 units (1990-2005)
Assembly Time: Approx. 100 hours per vehicle
Quality Rating: 99.9% defect-free rate

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect brake pads
  • Inspect brake rotors
  • Check brake fluid level
  • Bleed brake system
  • Inspect brake lines
  • Inspect parking brake

Replace brake pads if thickness is below 1.5 mm

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Replace brake pads
  • Resurface or replace brake rotors
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Inspect caliper piston seals
  • Inspect brake hardware
  • Test ABS system functionality

Use high-temperature brake fluid

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Overhaul brake calipers
  • Replace brake master cylinder
  • Replace ABS control unit
  • Inspect parking brake cable
  • Inspect brake pedal assembly
  • Test brake system performance

Critical to use manufacturer-approved components

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the brake rotor diameter for the 1990-2005 Acura NSX?

The front brake rotors for the 1990-2005 Acura NSX measure 298 mm in diameter, while the rear brake rotors measure 303 mm. These dimensions are specific to the standard braking system and may vary for performance or aftermarket upgrades.

Q2

What type of brake pads are recommended for the Acura NSX?

The Acura NSX is equipped with semi-metallic brake pads as standard. For improved performance, especially in high-temperature conditions, ceramic brake pads are recommended. Always ensure the pads meet OEM specifications for proper fit and performance.

Q3

How often should the brake fluid be replaced in the Acura NSX?

Acura recommends replacing the brake fluid every 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, as specified in the owner's manual, to maintain optimal braking performance and prevent corrosion in the brake system.

Q4

What is the recommended brake pad thickness for replacement?

The brake pads should be replaced when the friction material thickness reaches 3 mm or less. Regularly inspect the pads during routine maintenance to ensure they are within safe operating limits.

Q5

Can I upgrade the braking system on my Acura NSX?

Yes, the Acura NSX can be upgraded with aftermarket or performance braking systems. Popular upgrades include larger rotors, multi-piston calipers, and high-performance brake pads. Ensure the upgrades are compatible with the vehicle's ABS system and adhere to safety standards.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Acura NSX Brake System Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual detailing brake system maintenance, repair procedures, and specifications for the 1990-2005 Acura NSX.

Brake Pad Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing brake pads on the Acura NSX, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

Brake Fluid Flush Procedure

Coming Soon

Detailed instructions for performing a brake fluid flush on the Acura NSX, including recommended tools and fluid types.

Performance Brake Upgrades for Acura NSX

Coming Soon

Overview of aftermarket brake upgrades, including rotor and caliper options, for enhanced performance and safety.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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