2009 Kia Sportage brakes locking up... need help!

Kia Models Forum Sportage
1

Hi everyone, my 2009 Kia Sportage brakes are locking up after I’ve been driving for a minute. It started today, and I also noticed my steering wheel shakes when I hit 60 mph. The front brakes seem to be the issue. I replaced the calipers about 2 months ago because of a similar problem, but it’s happening again. I recently changed the brake hoses too, but the brakes are still locking up. Any ideas on what else could be causing this?

2

It could be an issue with the master cylinder. If it’s not releasing pressure properly, the brakes can stay engaged.

3

YukiJane said:
It could be an issue with the master cylinder. If it’s not releasing pressure properly, the brakes can stay engaged.

Thanks, I’ll look into the master cylinder. Would replacing it fix the issue?

4

@Walton
Yes, if the master cylinder is the problem, replacing it should solve it. Make sure to test it before replacing, though.

5

Did you check the ABS module? A faulty ABS module can sometimes cause the brakes to lock up.

6

renatahilda said:
Did you check the ABS module? A faulty ABS module can sometimes cause the brakes to lock up.

No, I haven’t checked that yet. Is there an easy way to test the ABS module?

7

@Walton
You’d need a diagnostic tool to scan for ABS error codes. If it’s bad, you’ll probably see a warning light on the dash too.

8

I’d also inspect the brake booster. If it’s malfunctioning, it could keep the brakes applied even when you’re not pressing the pedal.

9

Jean said:
I’d also inspect the brake booster. If it’s malfunctioning, it could keep the brakes applied even when you’re not pressing the pedal.

Thanks for the suggestion. I’ll add the brake booster to my list of things to check.

10

When you replaced the calipers and hoses, did you also flush and bleed the brake system? Contaminated fluid can cause issues like this.

11

Smith said:
When you replaced the calipers and hoses, did you also flush and bleed the brake system? Contaminated fluid can cause issues like this.

I didn’t flush the system recently. I’ll try that next and see if it helps. Thanks!

12

Check for any kinks or pinches in the brake lines. Even new hoses can get damaged during installation.

13

maryschultz said:
Check for any kinks or pinches in the brake lines. Even new hoses can get damaged during installation.

Good point. I’ll inspect the lines carefully and make sure there’s no damage. Thanks for the tip!