How to Check for Brake Drag?
2 Answers
Hydraulic brake system brake drag diagnosis methods are as follows: 1. Lift the car and manually rotate the wheels without pressing the brake pedal. If a certain wheel cannot rotate, it indicates brake drag on that wheel; if all wheels cannot rotate, it indicates brake drag on all wheels. 2. If there is brake drag on an individual wheel, first loosen the bleeder screw of that wheel's brake cylinder. If brake fluid spurts out rapidly and the wheel can then rotate freely, it indicates a blockage in the brake line of that wheel, and the brake cylinder failed to return oil, which should be replaced promptly. If the wheel still cannot rotate, remove the wheel and disassemble it to inspect the brake. 3. If there is brake drag on all wheels, first check if the brake pedal free travel meets the requirements. If the free travel is too small, adjust it promptly; check the return condition of the brake pedal by pressing it firmly to the floor and quickly releasing it. If the pedal returns slowly, it indicates a failure in the brake pedal return spring, which should be replaced or repaired.
When it comes to brake drag, I often pay attention to the driving condition of my vehicle. If I feel the car is harder to start or accelerate than usual, as if someone is pulling it from behind, this is likely a sign of brake drag. I would first park the car safely and turn off the engine, then walk to the wheel hub and gently touch the brake disc with my hand. If it's still warm or even hot to the touch, it means the brake isn't fully releasing. Next, I try to push the car slightly to see if it feels unusually heavy or difficult to move—if it doesn't budge, extra caution is needed. Sometimes, I also drive on a flat road and lightly press the accelerator to listen for any dragging or creaking noises from the tires. If I notice anything unusual, I make it a habit to regularly check the brake system's hydraulic pressure and whether the caliper pistons are stuck, preventing minor issues from turning into major failures. Safety always comes first, and early detection can avoid accelerated wear and potential accidents. I believe developing routine checks, such as quickly feeling the wheel hub temperature before driving each week, can help keep my beloved car running longer.