Brake components stuck

Since brakes involve a lot of moving parts, sometimes these parts can get stuck and hinder operation. The braking components can become stuck in a resting position or while engaged. If stuck at the resting position, the brakes will not be applied when the brake pedal is pressed. If stuck while engaged or near engaged, the brakes may lock up at random or prevent a wheel from spinning freely. On disc brakes, the caliper may attach to the disc. See seized piston in a brake caliper. On drum brakes, the shoe may have a closer starting position to the drum. See brake shoes out of adjustment.

Table of Contents

• 1. Symptoms
  • 1.1 Vehicle Pulls to One Side
  • 1.2 Brakes Lock Up
  • 1.3 Brakes Don't Engage

Symptoms

Vehicle Pulls to One Side

If the vehicle is pulling to one side while driving, the brake on one wheel may be engaged. This will cause three wheels to move the vehicle around essentially stationary point.

If the front left wheel brake is locked up, the rest of the wheels will push the vehicle in that direction. Depending on the severity, it may be a slight pull, or it may force the car to pivot around a stationary wheel.

Brakes Lock Up

If the brakes are locking up with little or no touch of the brake pedal, the starting position for the brake components may be off. This means the wheels are close to braking at a state of rest. A slight amount of pressure can cause them to lock up. If close enough, the brakes may be stuck while engaged, preventing the wheel from moving all together.

Brakes Don't Engage

If the brakes are not engaging, the components may be stuck in a resting position. When the brake pedal is applied, there isn't enough force to un-stick them, and they will not respond.