What to Do When the Front Wheels of a Vehicle Lock Up During Braking?

[MacCatherine]

The solutions for front wheel brake lock-up in a vehicle: 1. Clean or replace the brake caliper; 2. Replace with a qualified brake disc; 3. Conduct a computer diagnosis and repair at a 4S shop based on the fault code. When the brakes lock up, if the tracks of the front and rear wheels are in a straight line, the vehicle moves forward in a straight line. If the tracks of the front and rear wheels are not aligned, the vehicle will skid. To address brake lock-up issues, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) technology is used. The main feature of this technology is that during emergency braking, the wheels do not stop rotating, ensuring that the vehicle does not experience sliding friction with the ground. This helps maintain control of the vehicle and prevents tire blowouts caused by sliding friction.

[LeCarmen]

I once experienced sudden front brake seizure where the wheels locked up completely, causing the car to pull sharply and skid – it was truly terrifying. I immediately released the accelerator while maintaining steering control, gradually slowing down to pull over safely with hazard lights on. Never force drive in this situation as it can grind tires, damage brake rotors, or cause accidents. For initial checks, see if the brake pedal is stuck or gently tap the wheel hub to dislodge possible jams. If unresolved, don't take risks. Safety first – I promptly called a tow truck for professional inspection at a repair shop. Replacing rusted components fixed the issue. Now I prioritize seasonal brake maintenance, especially after rain or long trips, because prevention always beats emergency repairs.

[VonArthur]

I've seen a lot in this line of work. Front wheel brake lock-up is usually caused by caliper corrosion or hydraulic failure. Don't force it to drive further—get out and check if there's enough brake fluid, and give the tire a simple tap to see if it loosens. Forcing it will increase wear or even lead to loss of control. The proper approach is to safely park and seek professional inspection. During repairs, you might need to replace the caliper or clean the brake lines, which won't cost much—just a few hundred bucks. Prevention is key: regularly clean and lubricate brake components to extend their lifespan. Don't overlook daily maintenance details—safe driving relies on these small habits.

[StAlyssa]

When I was a new driver, I panicked when the brakes locked up. I immediately turned on the hazard lights, slowed down, and pulled over safely without making any sudden moves. I then called for roadside assistance right away and learned that it could be due to water in the brakes or aging components. Safety is the top priority—never attempt DIY repairs to avoid making things worse. Afterwards, I made sure to get regular maintenance checks to prevent future issues. As a beginner, gaining more knowledge can help avoid panic in such situations.