Brakes keep smoking and locking up

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros. Com.

First, is this problem related to all four wheels? Also, if you safely lift the vehicle, do the wheels turn easily? If you apply the brakes and release them can you turn the wheels?

There are a few things that can cause this problem. However, it usually is not all of them at the same time, so please let me know. Also, have all brake calipers been replaced? If not, has new brake hardware, including the caliper slides, been replaced? Have any of the rubber brake hoses been replaced?

I will watch for your reply.

Joe

Welcome back:

Most likely it is the rubber brake hose that runs to the caliper. Over time, the break down internally. Forcing fluid through is achieved, but when you release the brake pedal, there isn't enough pressure to return the fluid and the brake sticks.

Here is a simple way to test it. Safely lift and remove the wheel. Apply the brakes so the rotor will not turn and release the brake. When released, can you turn the rotor indicating the brake has released? If not do this.

Apply the brake again and try to turn the rotor. If you can't turn it, open the bleeder on the brake caliper which in turn will release the pressure on the brake pads. If you can then turn the rotor, replace that rubber brake hose.

Remember, if the caliper is sticking, the brake will get hotter than it should. Then, fluid begins to expand and forces the brake to lock.

Let me know what you find or if you have questions.

Take care,
Joe

Welcome back:

You are welcome. I will watch for your reply.

Take care,
Joe

Welcome back:

Jeff, It should be okay, but honestly, I would want it secured. Some people say I worry too much, but I like things to be put back the way the manufacturer designed it. Recontact the parts store and see if they have another one on stock that has the retainer. I would think they would give it to you. If not, Dorman is an excellent company. I use a lot of their parts and feel they would help you.

Regardless, I'm glad that took care of it for you. Let me know what they tell you and if you get the part you need. It's funny, any time I do brake work, everything has to be clean, corrosion free, I file the slides to ensure there are no burs or uneven spots, and lube everything. One of the techs saw me doing it today and said I was nuts. I guess the bottom line is this. I never had a brake job come back. LOL Others have. There are certain components I will not let go without being 100% sure everything is right (at least to the best of my ability). Brakes are number one in that category.

Please feel free to let me know if you have additional questions or need help. Also, let me know if you get what you need.

Take care of yourself.

Joe

You're welcome, Jeff. Honestly, many years ago I had a great teacher. He insisted that the vehicles will always work the best the way engineers designed them to be. He was like that. In his mind, everything had to be perfect. LOL In a way, I think it rubbed off on me. I absolutely hate doing sloppy work. He used to say, "make it look like someone lives here" when we did things. Everything had to be clean, neat, and properly put back. Actually, I'm glad he was like that.

I will watch for your reply. Take care and enjoy the weekend.

Joe