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If you own a 2002–2006 Honda CR-V and are hearing grinding, noticing brake fluid loss, or feeling uneven braking, worn or failing calipers are a likely culprit. Choosing the right 2002-2006 Honda CR-V brake calipers matters because calipers directly control pad contact, pedal feel, and vehicle stability during stops.This guide presents seven carefully shortlisted brake calipers compatible with this CR-V generation. We evaluated fitment specifics, corrosion protection, seal and piston materials, and mounting hardware to identify options that restore reliable braking and minimize future maintenance. Read on to understand the decision factors and which caliper attributes matter most for long-term ownership.
Looking for other parts? See all Honda CR-V parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Detroit Axle Front Brake Kit with Calipers and Ceramic Pads for 2002–2004 Honda CR-V / 2003–2011 Element |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | TRQ Front Brake Caliper Set (Zinc Coated) – Direct Fit |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | A-Premium Front Right Disc Brake Caliper Assembly with Bracket |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | cciyu Front Left Brake Caliper Assembly with Bracket (19B2663) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | PHILTOP Front Brake Caliper (Front position) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Detroit Axle Front Brake Kit with Rotors, Ceramic Pads and Calipers |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Detroit Axle Front Brake Caliper Kit with Brackets for 2002–2004 Honda CR-V / 2003–2011 Element |  |
1. Detroit Axle Front Brake Kit with Calipers and Ceramic Pads for 2002–2004 Honda CR-V / 2003–2011 Element
| Fitment | 2002-2004 Honda CR-V; 2003-2011 Honda Element |
|---|---|
| Kit contents | 2 front calipers, 2 ceramic brake pads, brackets, cleaner and fluid |
| Caliper piston size | 2.25 in. / 57.1 mm |
| Piston material | Steel |
| Position | Front |
This Detroit Axle front brake kit replaces the front calipers and pads on 2002–2004 Honda CR-V and 2003–2011 Honda Element models. The kit ships with two front disc brake calipers, a pair of ceramic brake pads, and basic accessories such as brackets and brake cleaner/ fluid, so it covers the major parts most DIYers need for a front brake job. Detroit Axle states the calipers are built to factory-spec standards with pressure testing to prevent leaks, and the single-piston steel calipers should deliver predictable, OEM-style braking feel. Ceramic pads are quieter and produce less dust than semi-metallic pads, making them a good everyday choice for commuting and light duty. The obvious benefit is a near-complete front brake replacement in one purchase, which simplifies installation and reduces parts-mismatch risk. Limitations: this is a direct replacement kit for the specified CR-V/Element years only and uses single-piston calipers, so it is not aimed at performance braking or heavy towing applications.
Best for: Buyers who want a straightforward, factory-style front brake replacement that minimizes parts-shopping and works well for daily driving and light-duty use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking upgraded performance braking, heavy towing capability, or multi-piston calipers should consider performance-oriented or heavy-duty alternatives.
- Complete front kit includes calipers, ceramic pads, brackets and basic cleaner/fluid for a one-stop replacement
- Calipers pressure-tested and built to factory-spec standards to reduce risk of leaks
- Ceramic pads offer quieter operation and lower brake dust than many semi-metallic pads
- Includes brackets and hardware to help ensure proper fit and simpler installation
- Single-piston steel calipers are standard replacement parts and not designed for upgraded stopping power under heavy loads
Verdict: A convenient, factory-style front brake replacement kit that gives balanced, quiet everyday braking and simplifies a DIY swap for the specified CR-V/Element years.
2. TRQ Front Brake Caliper Set (Zinc Coated) – Direct Fit
| Brand | TRQ |
|---|---|
| Model | TRQ CLA37582 2 Piece Brake Caliper Set |
| Position | Front |
| Exterior | Machined |
| Zinc Coated | Yes |
These TRQ front brake calipers are sold as a two-piece direct-replacement set intended to restore front braking function on compatible vehicles. They come pre-assembled with hardware and an abutment kit, so installation is similar to a factory swap and does not require modifications. The zinc coating helps resist surface corrosion and the EPDM seals are specified to resist thermal deterioration, which matters if you push the brakes hard. TRQ includes new banjo fittings and washers and claims 100 percent new components rather than remanufactured cores. In real-world use the parts have generally fit well and bled normally for DIY installs, and TRQ provides installation videos to speed the job. Reported issues include occasional stuck guide pins or seized bleeder valves on some units and one reviewer noting mismatched bracket-to-hub bolt threads, so verify bolt compatibility during installation. For drivers focused on braking performance, these calipers provide reliable, factory-style replacement with corrosion protection, but expect to check and possibly replace mounting fasteners and to bench-verify piston movement before final installation.
Best for: Drivers who want a performance-minded factory-style replacement that resists corrosion and accepts firm braking use, and who plan to perform the installation themselves or work with a mechanic familiar with caliper swaps.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking high-end track-capable calipers or race upgrades with multi-piston designs should consider performance-specific options instead.
- Direct-fit pre-assembled design simplifies replacement and mirrors factory fitment
- Zinc coating provides improved rust resistance for longer visual life in corrosive environments
- Includes EPDM seals and hardware kit so you receive banjo bolt, washers, and abutment hardware
- Manufacturer supplies DIY installation videos to guide bleeding and fitment
- Some users reported stuck pistons or seized bleeder screws on a minority of units
- Bracket-to-hub mounting bolt thread differences reported, which may require sourcing replacement bolts
Verdict: A direct-fit, corrosion-resistant front caliper set that gives performance-oriented drivers a reliable factory-style replacement while keeping installation straightforward.
3. A-Premium Front Right Disc Brake Caliper Assembly with Bracket
| Vehicle fitment | Honda CR-V 2002-2004, Element 2003-2011 |
|---|---|
| Position | Front right passenger side |
| Brake piston count | 1 metal piston |
| Inlet port size | M10 x 1.0 |
| Bleeder port size | M10 x 1.0 |
This A-Premium caliper is a direct replacement front right passenger assembly intended for 2002–2004 Honda CR-V and 2003–2011 Element models. It arrives as a complete caliper and bracket with a single metal piston, installation hardware, and anti-rust coating to help resist corrosion. Typical use is straightforward: bolt it in place of a worn or seized factory caliper during a brake service or rotor replacement. The included bracket and hardware simplify installation for a competent DIYer or a technician, and the M10 x 1.0 inlet and bleeder ports match common factory brake lines for hassle-free bleeding. Expect factory-style braking function and a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee for added confidence. Limitations are that the unit comes without pads and uses a single piston design, which is less performance-oriented than multi-piston options and may not suit heavy-duty or track use. Buyers should also confirm the reference numbers and vehicle fitment before ordering to ensure a direct fit.
Best for: Buyers who want a practical, cost-effective factory-style replacement caliper that fits specified CR-V and Element years and values straightforward installation and corrosion resistance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking high-performance or multi-piston calipers for aggressive driving or track use should consider upgraded units instead.
- Complete assembly with bracket and installation hardware included for easier swap with the factory part
- Anti-rust coating to reduce corrosion and extend service life
- Uses standard M10 x 1.0 inlet and bleeder ports for compatibility with factory brake lines
- One-year unlimited-mileage guarantee provides added buyer confidence
- Caliper is single-piston and does not include brake pads, so additional purchases may be required for a full brake job
Verdict: A practical, factory-style front right caliper assembly that makes a straightforward, corrosion-resistant replacement for specified 2002–2004 CR-V and 2003–2011 Element models.
4. cciyu Front Left Brake Caliper Assembly with Bracket (19B2663)
| Position | Front Left |
|---|---|
| Piston Size | 2.24 inch |
| Inlet Port Size | M10 x 1.0 |
| Bleeder Port Size | M10 x 1.0 |
| Piston Material | Iron |
This cciyu front left brake caliper is a direct replacement assembly built to match the factory mounting and hydraulic connections for compatible Honda CR-V and Element 2.4L models. It arrives with the mounting bracket installed and a single iron piston sized around 2.24 inches, so installation is straightforward for a mechanic or experienced DIYer when swapping a worn driver-side caliper. The unit is painted for corrosion resistance and the ports are threaded M10 x 1.0 to match OEM brake lines and bleeder fittings. In real use it provides consistent stopping power and is marketed for quiet operation, which helps reduce brake squeal after install. Expect the practical benefits of a complete bracketed caliper that saves time compared with sourcing separate parts. Limitations are that this is a single caliper without pads or rotors, and buyers should confirm exact fitment to their year and submodel before ordering to avoid returns.
Best for: Buyers looking to repair a driver-side caliper on a 2002–2006 Honda CR-V or compatible Element who prioritize a low-cost, ready-to-install replacement over buying complete brake kits.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers who want a complete brake overhaul with pads and rotors included or those who prefer upgraded performance calipers for high‑performance driving.
- Direct-fit assembly with bracket included for faster replacement
- Painted finish helps resist corrosion
- Factory-style M10 x 1.0 inlet and bleeder ports match common brake lines
- Single 2.24 inch iron piston construction for predictable braking force
- Sold as a caliper only so pads and rotors must be purchased separately
Verdict: A budget-friendly, bracketed front-left replacement that restores factory-style braking on 2002–2006 Honda CR‑V driver side without extra parts.
5. PHILTOP Front Brake Caliper (Front position)
| Position | Front |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | PHILTOP |
| Model | brake caliper kit |
| Exterior | Machined |
This PHILTOP front brake caliper is a direct replacement-style assembly intended for older Honda CR-V and Element front brakes. It arrives as a complete caliper and bracket assembly with a phenolic piston and the mounting hardware needed for installation, so it is typically used when an original caliper leaks, seizes, or fails. The caliper is cast from ductile iron with a zinc-plated finish for corrosion resistance and the listing notes IATF16949 certification, which suggests manufacturing process controls. Buyers report straightforward installation, included banjo fitting hardware, and pre-greased slide pins that simplify reassembly and bleeding. The machining and casting are serviceable rather than premium, so while it restores stopping function and holds pressure it may not match high-end OE fit and finish. This makes it a practical, cost-conscious option for routine repairs where reliable braking and fitment are the priority rather than cosmetic perfection or performance braking upgrades.
Best for: Drivers who need a reliable, factory-style front caliper to restore proper braking on older Honda CR-Vs and value a straightforward replacement that arrives ready to install.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers seeking upgraded performance calipers or a cosmetically flawless, high-end finish should consider performance or OEM branded alternatives.
- Complete caliper and bracket assembly includes mounting hardware for direct replacement
- Ductile iron construction with zinc-plated surface resists rust
- IATF16949 noted, indicating controlled manufacturing processes
- Slide pins shipped greased and includes banjo fitting hardware to simplify installation
- Not described as premium-machined casting so finish quality may be average
Verdict: A practical, factory-style front caliper replacement that restores reliable stopping for older Honda CR-Vs with minimal fuss.
6. Detroit Axle Front Brake Kit with Rotors, Ceramic Pads and Calipers
| Orientation | Front |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
| Caliper Piston Size | 2.25 in. / 57.1 mm |
| Part Interchange Info | R-31257 P-914 19B2663 19B2662 |
This Detroit Axle front brake kit supplies everything needed for a full front brake refresh: two vented disc rotors, two ceramic pads with hardware, and left and right front calipers. It is designed for vehicles with 11.10 inch (282 mm) front rotors and the rotors are zinc plated and ventilated to improve cooling and resist corrosion. Ceramic pads reduce dust and are quieter than many semi-metallic options while the included calipers (2.25 inch pistons, steel) let you replace worn or seized units without sourcing separate parts. The kit ships with small extras such as brake cleaner and grease which make a DIY job more convenient. Fitment is aimed at 2002-2004 CR-V front applications, so confirm rotor size before buying. Buyers looking for a value-oriented, all-in-one replacement will appreciate the fit-and-forget approach, but professional installation or brake bleeding experience is recommended since caliper replacement and bleeding are required for a correct finish.
Best for: Buyers who want a single-package front brake replacement with matched rotors, pads, and calipers and who value peer-proven reliability and straightforward fitment for the specified CR-V rotor size.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers who need a year-agnostic or different rotor diameter solution or who only want individual components rather than a full kit.
- Complete kit includes rotors, ceramic pads, and both front calipers so you can replace all front components at once
- Vented, zinc-plated rotors aid cooling and resist corrosion for longer visual life
- Ceramic pads are low-dust and engineered for quieter operation
- Includes installation extras such as pad hardware, brake cleaner, and grease
- Fitment targets CR-V models with 11.10 inch (282 mm) rotors so it is not universal across all years/configurations
Verdict: A value-focused, all-in-one front brake replacement that pairs ventilated zinc-plated rotors with ceramic pads and calipers for proper fitment on CR-Vs with 11.10 inch front rotors.
7. Detroit Axle Front Brake Caliper Kit with Brackets for 2002–2004 Honda CR-V / 2003–2011 Element
| Fitment | 2002-2004 Honda CR-V; 2003-2011 Honda Element |
|---|---|
| Piston size | 2.25 in. / 57.1 mm |
| Piston material | Steel |
| Bracket included | Yes |
This Detroit Axle kit supplies both left and right front disc brake calipers plus mounting brackets intended as direct-fit replacements for 2002–2004 Honda CR-V and 2003–2011 Element. Each caliper uses a single 2.25 in. steel piston and comes zinc plated to resist corrosion. The kit is meant for straightforward installation with the bracket included so you do not need to reuse old hardware, and the manufacturer reports pressure testing for leak-free performance. In everyday driving the calipers should restore firm braking feel and consistent clamp force when paired with properly sized rotors and pads. Buyers should note these are aftermarket remanufactured-style parts rather than new factory units, so finish and minor casting differences compared with factory parts are possible. If you expect perfect cosmetic match or need upgraded performance pistons, alternative specialty calipers would be a better choice. For routine repairs on aging CR-Vs this kit covers both sides and simplifies replacement without extra machining or bracket hunting.
Best for: Buyers looking for a straightforward, reliable front caliper replacement that minimizes installation fuss and restores normal braking on an older CR-V while prioritizing low risk and proven fitment.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a cosmetic match to brand-new factory calipers or those who want performance-upgraded calipers with multi-piston designs should consider other options.
- Direct-fit pair includes both left and right front calipers and mounting brackets for easier installation
- Steel 2.25 in. pistons and reported pressure testing aimed at reliable, leak-free operation
- Zinc plating provides visible corrosion resistance for longer external life
- Designed to replace factory calipers so no bracket reuse or special modifications required
- Aftermarket remanufactured construction may show minor cosmetic or casting differences from factory parts
Verdict: A practical, low-risk direct-fit front caliper kit that replaces both sides and simplifies brake repairs on early 2000s Honda CR-Vs.
Choosing the Right 2002-2006 Honda CR-V Brake Calipers: Key Factors to Consider
Correct Fitment and Mounting Pattern
Caliper mounting dimensions and hose connection type must match the 2002–2006 Honda CR-V exactly. Even small differences in bolt spacing, bracket depth, or bleeder valve placement can prevent proper installation or make bleeding impossible without additional adapters.
Matching fitment ensures the caliper aligns with the rotor and pads, preventing uneven pad wear, noise, or dragging. Verify mounting bolt size, bracket orientation, and handbrake/parking-e-brake linkage compatibility when selecting replacement calipers.
Corrosion Protection and Finish
The 2002–2006 CR-V commonly encounters wet roads and winter salt, which accelerate corrosion of calipers and pistons. A durable coating or plating on the caliper body and piston surface reduces the risk of seized pistons and caliper binding over time.
Look for calipers with zinc plating, ceramic coatings, or high-quality paint, and consider pistons treated to resist pitting. Improved corrosion protection prolongs service intervals and reduces the chance of needing a full replacement prematurely.
Seal and Piston Material Quality
Caliper seals and piston materials determine resistance to brake fluid, heat cycles, and debris. High-quality EPDM or compatible elastomers maintain a reliable seal and resist swelling or cracking that leads to leaks.
Stainless or treated pistons resist scoring and contamination that cause leaks and sticking. Choosing calipers with durable seals and piston finishes reduces fluid loss and maintains consistent pedal feel under repeated braking.
Hardware and Serviceability
Calipers that include mounting bolts, guide pins, dust boots, and compatible bleeder valves simplify installation and lower the chance of warranty or service issues. Rebuildable designs and availability of a brake caliper rebuild kit matter for owners who plan to service components instead of replacing them.
Consider the orientation and accessibility of the bleeder screw for proper bleeding, whether guide pins are replaceable, and whether replacement seals are available locally. These details affect the total time and cost of installation and future servicing.
Parking Brake and Rear Caliper Specifics
If you are replacing rear brake calipers, confirm compatibility with the integrated parking brake mechanism used on this CR-V. Rear calipers sometimes include cable-actuated parking brake levers or internal actuators that must match the vehicle's handbrake setup.
Incorrect rear caliper selection can leave the parking brake inoperative or require additional modifications. Verify cable attachment points, actuator engagement, and whether an adjustment mechanism is included to ensure the parking brake functions properly after installation.
Brake Performance and Heat Management
Calipers influence pad contact consistency and heat dissipation. For everyday driving and occasional heavy stops, a caliper that maintains piston movement and resists heat-related seal degradation preserves pedal feel and stopping power.
Look for caliper designs that offer even piston retraction and stable pad alignment. Proper thermal performance reduces brake fade risk during repeated stops and extends pad and rotor life by keeping pad contact uniform.
Front Versus Rear Caliper Differences
Front brake calipers on the 2002–2006 Honda CR-V handle a greater share of stopping force and typically have larger pistons and bodies than the rear units. That means front calipers must provide consistent piston movement and robust seals to manage higher temperatures and pressure cycles encountered during heavy braking.
- Front calipers require attention to piston bore size and pad alignment for even wear
- Rear calipers may incorporate parking brake mechanisms that add mechanical complexity
- Choose front calipers rated for the vehicle's original braking load and pad profile
Signs You Need a Brake Caliper Replacement
Several symptoms indicate caliper issues on this CR-V generation. Common signs include uneven pad wear, a pulling sensation during braking toward one side, visible brake fluid leaks near the caliper, and a soft or sinking brake pedal that does not respond normally. Caliper sticking symptoms often present as a dragging wheel, overheating wheel hub, or premature rotor scoring.
- Brake caliper symptoms such as fluid leaks, sticking, and pedal feel changes warrant inspection
- Check for uneven pad thickness and rotor heat after brief driving to spot a sticking caliper
- Address early to avoid rotor damage or reduced braking performance
When to Rebuild Versus Replace
Rebuilding a caliper with a brake caliper rebuild kit can be a cost-effective repair if the caliper body is undamaged, threads and bleeder ports are intact, and piston surfaces are free of deep pitting. Rebuilds restore seals, dust boots, and hardware, returning reliable function in many cases.Replacement is the better option when the caliper body is heavily corroded, mounting surfaces are compromised, or the piston is severely scored. Consider the availability and cost of rebuild kits and whether the same-quality seals are readily obtainable before deciding to rebuild.
- Inspect the piston and bore for pitting before choosing a rebuild
- Ensure replacement seals match the vehicle specification and fluid compatibility
- Replace if mounting surfaces or guide pin bores are worn
Bleeding and Brake Fluid Considerations
After installing new calipers or rebuilding existing ones, proper bleeding is essential to remove air and restore firm pedal feel. The 2002–2006 CR-V uses a conventional bleed sequence; ensure bleeder screws are accessible and proceed with a complete system bleed, using the correct DOT-rated brake fluid specified for the vehicle.Also plan for a test drive with moderate stops to confirm pedal firmness and absence of fluid leaks. Using fresh fluid and following the correct procedure reduces the chance of a spongy pedal or uneven braking after installation.
- Use the correct DOT brake fluid as specified for the vehicle
- Confirm bleeder screw orientation and accessibility before installation
- Perform a full system bleed following manufacturer-recommended sequence
Tools and Time to Expect for a Caliper Job
Replacing a single caliper on this CR-V typically requires common hand tools: a jack and stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, C-clamp or piston retraction tool, line wrenches for the brake hose banjo fitting, and a fluid catch container. Plan for at least one to two hours per caliper for an experienced DIYer, longer if you are removing rusted hardware or dealing with stuck guide pins.Professional installation times vary but usually reflect similar labor for inspection, replacement, and bleeding. Preparing the proper tools, new hardware, and fresh brake fluid ahead of time minimizes delays and helps ensure a safe, correct installation.
- Have a piston retraction tool or large C-clamp to compress pistons
- Use a line wrench for the brake hose fitting to avoid rounding
- Allow time for proper bleeding and test driving
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Honda CR-V configuration to see the most relevant Brake Calipers recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2002-2006 Honda CR-V Brake Calipers
We focused on selection criteria that matter for 2002–2006 Honda CR-V owners looking to replace calipers. First, correct vehicle fitment and mounting pattern were mandatory; only calipers matching the CR-V's 2002–2006 chassis, brake hose connection, and hardware locations were considered. Second, corrosion resistance and coating quality were evaluated because this generation commonly sees road salt and moisture exposure that accelerate seized pistons and buildup.Third, seal and piston materials were assessed to ensure proper resistance to brake fluid and heat cycling; calipers with higher-grade rubber or upgraded piston finishes were favored. Fourth, availability of replacement seals or a rebuild kit and the presence of complete mounting hardware influenced selection, since easier future maintenance reduces lifetime cost. Finally, serviceability factors such as bleeder valve orientation and compatibility with OEM-style parking brake linkages were checked.We excluded any units lacking clear fitment documentation, incomplete mounting kits, or that required major bracket modifications. We also filtered out options intended for different model years or different brake configurations. The resulting list emphasizes durable, serviceable calipers that suit typical driving conditions for this CR-V generation.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How do I know if a caliper is sticking on my CR-V?
A sticking caliper often causes one wheel to run hotter than the others, uneven pad wear, or a vehicle pull during braking. You may also notice reduced fuel economy or a burning smell after driving. Visual inspection for deposits on the piston or restricted guide pins can confirm the issue.
Can I rebuild a caliper myself with a rebuild kit?
Many owners can rebuild a caliper if the bore and piston are in good condition and necessary tools are available. A rebuild kit typically replaces seals, dust boots, and sometimes guide pins. Avoid rebuilding if the caliper body is heavily corroded or the piston surface is deeply pitted.
Should I replace both front or both rear calipers at the same time?
Replacing both calipers on an axle at once is usually recommended to ensure even braking and pedal feel. If one caliper has failed due to corrosion or wear, its partner may be near the same condition, and replacing both reduces the chance of uneven braking performance later.
What brake fluid should I use after caliper replacement?
Use the brake fluid type specified for the 2002–2006 Honda CR-V, following manufacturer recommendations. Fresh fluid helps prevent moisture-related corrosion and maintains proper boiling resistance. Always bleed the system thoroughly after replacing calipers.
Are remanufactured brake calipers a safe option?
Remanufactured brake calipers can be a safe, economical choice when they include new seals, rebuilt pistons, and verified corrosion protection. Ensure the remanufacturer documents the refurbishment process and that fitment and hardware match the vehicle's specifications.
How long does a caliper replacement usually take?
A single caliper replacement often takes one to two hours for someone experienced, including removal, installation, and bleeding. Time increases if hardware is seized, guide pins need replacement, or additional suspension components must be removed for access.
Final Verdict
When replacing brake calipers on a 2002–2006 Honda CR-V, prioritize correct fitment, corrosion resistance, and quality seals to restore reliable braking and minimize repeat labor. Decide between rebuilding and replacing based on piston and bore condition, availability of rebuild kits, and the cost of new hardware.For balanced performance, address calipers by axle rather than individually when possible, and ensure proper bleeding and fluid selection after installation. Focusing on these priorities will help you choose calipers that deliver consistent pedal feel and long service life for this CR-V generation.
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- Check out all Honda CR-V parts & accessories
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