I have a '99 with low miles, 60k, with a brake problem. Yesterday morning on backing out of the drive the brakes stayed engaged and nearly prevented the car from moving. Today I removed the access covers in the frunk to observe the brake action and to check for obstruction but found no clues. I had my wife start the car and apply and release the brakes and they were working normally. I may replace the master and booster but that's not the repair method I prefer, just throw parts at it hoping for a cure. Any ideas?

 

Maybe change brake fluid first?

 

Before you search for a mechanical problem, did you wash the car then park it? Occasionally I've had the pads form rust between them and the rotors so bad that it took quite a jolt to get them broke free.

 

The brake booster could be causing the brakes to stick. Also, check your parking brake. Maybe Jack up the car and see which wheel is dragging.

 

This has happened to me so many times. Wash car, pull into garage, Monday morning back up down the driveway and the pads and rotors are literally stuck together. One good brake application later and no problems.

 

Ditto

 

I wish is were just the pads sticking. I did drive it a short distance with the brakes sticking. All four rotors were hot so they all were applied.I had not washed it.

 

I did manage to adjust the free-play, I gave the nut about one turn. I know that too having no free-play can cause the brakes to drag. Usually that only happens when things are hot. I'm going to test drive and just hope I don't get stuck with the brakes locked up!

 

Ok, at this point, DO NOT DRIVE THE CAR!!!
If you don't have the tools/expertise, get it flat-bedded to a shop that does. Somethings terribly wrong!

 

I have an '02 and the same symptoms, been diagnosing 2+ weeks and 100+ miles. I release the brakes by bleeding off pressure at the ABS unit. You are the only other person to report this problem I have found.

 

Test drive went well. This may have been happening in a small way for some time and would explain the poor gas mileage. I'll get back in a few days, Bob

 

I had a similar issue and it turned out to be the brake booster and master cylinder. Water intrusion of the brake booster caused corrosion. Here's the link: Wheels Locked

Good luck!

 

I drove it a lot today, no more problems. If anyone wants to know tools needed and procedure, let me know. Bob

 

Yes please Bob, I have had this problem today of all four brakes not releasing the fluid back to reservoir. Where is the free play you talk about and how do I adjust it.