So. I got in the car to leave work this evening. It was cold, about 25*. Car was on a slight hill so I released the parking brake (expecting the car to roll backwards) and the car didn't move. Put it in reverse and started to let the clutch out and it seemed like something was holding the car back. I figured I'd drive to the gas station about a half mile up the road to check it out.

My parking brakes are not the issue, both drums were cold, and the rear rotors were slightly warm after just coming to a stop. The front rotors however were HOT! Got two nice burn marks on my hand from feeling each one. So, what would cause both front brakes to stick? If it was one, I'd think maybe a sticky caliper, or collapsed brake hose. but both? at the exact same time? I guess thats possible but highly unlikely I would think.

I did just have all the rear lines replaced, so both front and back calipers have new brake fluid, and the system was flushed. Could it possibly be something faulty with the ABS module?

Any ideas? Thanks.

 

The fronts being hot to the touch is normal...depending on how much braking you did between where you started and the gas station. I know mine get hot to the touch going from work to my house (and vice-verse) and I live 3/4 of mile away.

Jack the car up and physically try to turn each wheel. There should be very little resistance from the brakes. You can also have someone pump the pedal while you look at the calipers to see if they are hanging up. I find it hard to believe both calipers are sticking, but with colder weather, I suppose it's not impossible.

 

If u really want to fix ur issue, begin at the beginning and work ur way back.

 

the problem was both calipers were seized. The pistons to be more specific. They had 212,815 miles on them and are 15 years old. It is very unusual to have them stick at the same time but i guess not impossible. Got two calipers from autozone for only $45 after the core is turned in. But I payed $175 in labor. Thats what sucks about moving away to college and not having my tool arsenal. Anyway, my brakes feel perfect now. Nice and progressive, but not spongy. I think they were dragging for a while because my pedal was really firm before, but not anymore. I probaly should have picked up two new brake hoses while everything was apart because those would be the next things to go. I already had the left rear collapse last year.

 

keep an eye on the wheel bearings. i had one brake overheat from sticking and it fried the bearing.