2001 Taurus- front brack locks up

[cbolt1967]

Problem started recently. When stopping hard car pulls slightly to right. Apply more brakes and it locks up. I figure its the caliper, but would it be the passenger side locks from being bad or because the driver side isn't applying enough pressure? I pulled the brakes today and replaced the pads and made sure everything moved freely and the pads are lubed. Issue wasn't resolved however. I'm probably over thinking this and just need to replace the caliper on the locking up side but thought I'd see if anyone hear had any other ideas.

[shorod]

Were all brake pads wearing evenly?

After driving the car for awhile involving some braking, feel all four wheels and see if any of them seem warmer or colder than the others. If you have one that seems quite a bit hotter than the others, you may have a brake hose that collapsed and is not letting the caliper release.

You could also have air in a line on the left side. I certainly would suggest you bleed the braking system before replacing calipers. In fact, it's typically recommended that you flush the braking system every year as standard brake fluid is hygroscopic. Contaminated brake fluid can reduce the braking efficiency and, if it has absorbed moisture, can cause valves in the ABS pump to corrode.

If you change the caliper anyway, you'll need to bleed the brakes anyway, so you may as well get the practice before replacing it. Plus, if you break bleeder screws, you'll have more items to add to your shopping list when you pick up the caliper.

-Rod

[cbolt1967]

I drove the car to work today. First thing I checked when I got there was the rotors. The Right (passenger) side that locks up was hot. The Left side (Driver) was cold and the new rotor had NO wear. I"ll bleed it tonight,and see if that helps. I found this very odd. Its like the caliper isn't even working.

[shorod]

Hmmm, that does sound suspicious for a left caliper/line concern. Before replacing the caliper, I think you want to verify that fluid is at least making it to the caliper. Have someone apply the brakes while you slowly open the bleeder screw to see if fluid comes out. No fluid = caliper is not the initial concern.

-Rod