It Never Fails :(

[Joshua Caldwell]

It never fails... plan a multi-thousand mile trip and the car malfunctions. Fortunately, it didn't do it on the day of like normal, so I have 2 days to fix it.

The front left brakes will not fully release. Does anyone know what would likely cause this and any easy fixes or should I take it to a shop? (I have only basic mechanical abilities)

 

[bowers baldwin]

It never fails... plan a multi-thousand mile trip and the car malfunctions. Fortunately, it didn't do it on the day of like normal, so I have 2 days to fix it.

The front left brakes will not fully release. Does anyone know what would likely cause this and any easy fixes or should I take it to a shop? (I have only basic mechanical abilities)

Seized caliper I suspect.

 

[Craig]

With your definition of basic mechanical abilities I would Not chance a DIY repair with brakes! Take it to a professional and do so cautiously. Don't gamble with your life or others. While there are many here that can speculate on what is wrong your safety is not worth gambling with.

Yeah, take to a Pep Boys.

 

[Folks]

With your definition of basic mechanical abilities I would Not chance a DIY repair with brakes! Take it to a professional and do so cautiously. Don't gamble with your life or others. While there are many here that can speculate on what is wrong your safety is not worth gambling with.

I second that. Take it to a front end or wheel alinement place. That's where the pros are and not an arm and leg expensive either.

 

[Joshua Caldwell]

Yeah, take to a Pep Boys.

would, but I'm leaving on Sunday & their waiting list is longer than that.

 

[Folks]

would, but I'm leaving on Sunday & their waiting list is longer than that.

Any long trip should have a front and brake specialist for a look see. Mine charges zilch just to look. He can fix that caliper in a few minutes plus piece of mind for an expert on the vitals of tire ware and pressure. brakes and alinement. Just show up and ask. they'll work you in.

 

[Joshua Caldwell]

Found 3 alternatives in town with good reviews.

 

[Rayl]

It never fails... plan a multi-thousand mile trip and the car malfunctions. Fortunately, it didn't do it on the day of like normal, so I have 2 days to fix it.

The front left brakes will not fully release. Does anyone know what would likely cause this and any easy fixes or should I take it to a shop? (I have only basic mechanical abilities)

When I was younger and full of fire I'd get pissed with something like this---but as I got older --I came to realize these delays where actually a divine happening, so I would go with the flow after a moment ***^^%%it. I came to see the delay as needed--yeah--the moose crossed the highway--instead of me hitting him. Landing the helicopter out in the total nearly anywhere, due to fog---a few hours later----good to go. This after a five week stint in the wilds and very anxious to see wife and kids...IMO Life is about patience and lessons---how's the brake fluid level and the brake pad thickness---going over center on worn brakes can make things rather sluggish. I get that you needed a delay.. Have fun when you get going though. Rayl

 

[Snick]

Caliper slide pins might need to be replaced or greased. Can't tell you how many times I've found brakes that won't float properly because some goofball didn't grease the slide pins.

Loosen (barely)offending wheel's bolts.
Jack up car--set brake, chock a wheel, place 2 jackstands under car.
Remove offending wheel.
Remove caliper. Inspect slide pins. No grease? Put axle grease white lithium grease, or any high temp grease on them. Rusted? Sand off, grease.
Reinstall items in reverse order. Be careful and take your time.

I shamelessly steal a youtube video and give it to you:

EDIT NOTE: he doesn't use enough grease. Use more, but don't go crazy and let gobs drip from it.

Not siezed because of stuck slider pins?

Loose anti-chatter clips got seized? Post a photo here so someone can help you out.

 

[Joshua Caldwell]

thanks to everyone