The pads grab, but will not release

BLACKBROBARON

MEMBER
1997 FORD TAURUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
105,000 MILES

I replaced my rear brake pads and replaced a rotor. The side where the rotor was replaced, when driving down the road, I hear a humming and smell heat. I get back and take the tire off, I step on the brake peddle, the pads grab, but will not release. I did not know how to bleed the lines of brake fluid. I want to know why the pads wont release. Can you help me?

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

The brake pad will stick to the rotor when the piston of the brake caliper does not retract back. This is typically due to a brake hose which has collapsed on the inside and creating restriction and preventing the brake fluid to flow back through the hose, resulting a sticking brake pad.

In order to get this fixed you will have to replace the brake hose. Any time the brake sticks for a period of time it is also recommended to replace the caliper, as high heat has likely damaged the internals of the caliper.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/brake-caliper-replacement

Keep in mind that anytime the caliper or hose gets replaced, the brake system needs to be purged of any air by bleeding the brakes.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-bleed-or-flush-a-car-brake-system

I have attached the brake caliper and hose replacement as well as the brake bleeding procedure for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.

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