I recently replaced my rear pads again after only approximately 20,000 miles. This seems excessive. The inner pads were worn down to a greater degree. After replacing pads 1-2 years ago, the brakes ran hot with a noticeable burning smell. This seemed to resolve after a couple weeks, so I attributed it to the new pads breaking in.

Since replacing the pads a few weeks ago, I again noticed the brakes are hot and have a burning smell. I am wondering about possible causes.

1. Caliper seizing? I plan to relubricate the caliper guidepins.

2. Problem with the piston? I used pliers to turn them back in all the way. I’ve seen postings attributing brake dragging to a seized piston. This makes sense to me regarding the FRONT brakes since the piston will not retract after releasing the brake pedal. However, since the REAR piston must be rotated to retract, how would even a normally functioning piston retract when releasing the pedal. Shouldn't one expect poor braking with a seized rear piston because it cannot advance?

3. Warped rotors? There is no abnormal sensation in the steering or abnormal noise.

Thanks.

 

It's probably the guide pins.