2006 Scion TC

Hi, I have been having issues with my brakes over the past few weeks. It started with a burning brake smell and resistance. It went away later that night then I noticed the smell again and another time it almost felt like I had a flat, then when I stopped to look it went away. Today I was driving in the snow and it locked up, causing me to barely be able to maneuver the car, except on a 45 degree angle. I had to have it towed and it looks like both rear wheels are locked up. They will turn a little now and then but overall very locked up. At least one rotor was scorching hot when I stopped.

Originally, I thought it may be the calipers, but is it likely both calipers locked up at the same time? I had the rotors and rear calipers replaced 2 years ago due to them sticking. I don't know if it is from poor work being done and cheap parts or not. I was thinking of replacing both calipers and maybe going to ceramic pads (will i have to do the front with ceramic also?) Could it be something with the e-brake? I hardly ever use the e-brake. Has anyone had a problem like this? Any thoughts will be appreciated. Thanks!!!

 

If you hardly ever use your ebrake or if you used it when it was icy out, The ebrake could have possibly frozen on. It happened to my brother once. Same symptoms.

It's worth checking into.

 

I just took the wheels off today and seen the caliper pistons were both stuck out. I removed them and both sides spin, with some rubbing noise from the ebrake. I just find it strange that both sides locked up at the same time. Does anyone know if there is anything else I should look into/need to do besides replace the calipers and pads?

 

What is going on??!!!?? The front left on mine is keeping constant pressure on the piston. However when we took it off the rotor and compressed it... worked just fine!! I have a new set of SS brake lines on their way from Dezod... so hopefully it fixes the issue!!

Where are you located?? Curious because the winter and how cold it's been seems to be doing quite the number on tC's lately...

 

hey FIREDOG21,

Im in NJ so it could be the cold... But I am not sure why this is happening. You say you are getting ss lines and hope that will solve the problem. Can you explain in more detail? Is the problem the rubber hose that goes from the main line to the caliper? Thanks

 

Well... in speaking with my mech... the pistons aren't allowed to release because the fluid is built up and not allowed to escape. The stock OEM lines are rubber and they expand and contract not only with the use of the brakes, but the weather here in the lovely NE as well.

He believes the lines are corroded on the inside creating a blockage (again.. we've already torn the caliper off... cleaned, lubed and compressed... check good no issues) and replacing the lines will clear the issue.

Now, add in myself and I wanted to upgrade the lines to better than OEM just so I know they wouldn't cause any future problems just the tuner in me!!