My 2002 Buick LeSabre just had the front brake pads replaced for the second time. One of the interior ceramic pads was entirely gone with the other three still 40 or 50% good. Obviously one of the calipers was not retracting completely. The mechanic gave me a stuff happens answer but not a specific problem or a guarantee that it would not happen again. Anyone have a good explanation and a recommendation for future brake care?

. Lubricate the caliper pins with silicone grease--this is a must.

. Change the brake fluid every 2 to 3 years.

. Use Wagner Thermoquiet Ceramic Brake Pads, which come with a lifetime warranty.

The caliper pins likely were not removed, cleaned, and lubricated with silicone grease. Caliper pistons can also freeze in the bore, if the fluid is not regularly changed. Finally, pads need to be able to freely move in the caliper bracket. If they bind, they need to be ground or filed to fit properly. All corrosion needs to be removed from the caliper brackets and the shims cleaned. Pad friction points need to be lubricated with Squeak Relief or 3M Antiseize and Brake Lube.

The caliper could be bad but I have found that about 75% of the time, it is related to what TxGreaseMonkey said. Caliper pins and slides often get rusted or gummed up and don't allow the caliper or pads to move freely.

Exactly what the other guys said, but here's a link to see pictures of what corroded calipers pins look like

Sticking brake caliper