Brakes locking up

Tiny
TPG6950
  • MEMBER
  • 2012 NISSAN SENTRA
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
My brakes keep locking up. I need help. I’ve changed the pads, rotors, calipers, and the master cylinder and it still locking up! Help!
Monday, January 31st, 2022 AT 12:32 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,709 POSTS
Hi,

When they lock, is it when pressing the brake pedal, or does it slowly happen while driving? Is it a specific wheel? When you get out of the vehicle after driving, is there excessive heat coming from any of the wheels?

Let me know as much as you can. I need to narrow down the possibilities. Also, let me know if the rubber brake hoses were replaced. Additionally, let me know if there are specific wheels that are getting extremely hot after driving and the exact symptoms. (For example, it only happens when I touch the brake pedal, or they slowly lock up while driving).

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe
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Monday, January 31st, 2022 AT 7:18 PM
Tiny
TPG6950
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
It starts after I press the brake pedal. So, when I start the car and start moving it’s fine but after driving for a bit and then breaking the pedal starts to get harder to press and I can feel the car getting harder to drive. It is happening to both of my front tires. Not the back. When the pads are rubbing and sticking and when I stop yes, they are smoking. Yes, the hoses were replaced as well, and I had another place check to make sure they were. And it’s just the front tires. Any other questions feel free to ask. I’m feeling pretty defeated at this point and the worst part is I only owe $1,400.00 on it so I’m about to pay it off as well. Thanks for your help!
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Monday, January 31st, 2022 AT 8:54 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,709 POSTS
Hi,

I need you to try something for me. Lift one front (or both) off the ground. Turn the wheel by hand. Have a helper press the brake pedal so the wheel stops.

Have the helper release the pedal. Can you turn the wheel? If not, first, have the helper pull up on the pedal to see if it releases. If it doesn't, I need you to open the bleeder on the caliper and see if it releases.
I attached a pic below and highlighted the bleeder. When you open it, brake fluid will likely leak out, so don't press the brake pedal and close it as soon as you determine if the wheel turns.

Here is what I believe is happening. If there is a slight drag on the brake rotor, that will cause it to heat. The hotter it gets, the more the brake fluid expands. When it expands, the brake progressively will be applied harder and harder based on temperature.

I know this may sound funny, but make sure the brake pedal is fully returning. Look up under the dash where the brake light switch is located at the top of the pedal. Confirm it isn't out of adjustment far enough to apply a slight drag on the front wheels.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
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Tuesday, February 1st, 2022 AT 3:20 PM

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