I broke my ankle hiking and was unable to use my 2003 Honda Civic LX for 8 weeks ( it was in the garage). Yesterday when I attempted to drive it it felt like the brakes were locked ( like backing up when you forgot to release the hand brake but I had not forgot) and made a loud squealing noise. I went up and down the drive a couple of times , pumped the brakes, engaged and released the hand brake lever with no change.

I am not a mechanic ( I have changed oil and plugs, replaced side view mirror, etc but nothing major) but would like to solve this problem myself. Am I being unreasonable and how would I begin the process.

Thanks for your consideration

John

 

brake rotors normally build up a layer of rust when not used for more than a few days, especially in rainy weather. That rust will go away on its own from contact with the break pads.

But to be certain, you can spray the rotors down with brake cleaner and wipe it off with a clean cloth. My bet would be that this combined with driving a few miles down the road will solve your problem.

Your brakes do stop the car right? Its just they are sticking and squeaky?

 

Thanks for responding

Yes the problem is not stopping but going. It's like driving with the hand brake on and loud squealing-not squeaking.--I have gone but a few feet though.

john

 

You could try driving a block or so, forward and backward, to see if it breaks free. The next step would be to find out which wheel(s) it is. After driving, the affected brake is going to get hot. If you can't tell by that or by listening outside the car, jack up the car one corner at a time and try to turn the wheel by hand when it is off the ground.

 

by the way, make sure the car is in neutral, or the wheels wont turn. Took me a couple times to notice that :P

 

Seems to be left rear-now how do I break it loose?

Thanks

john

 

Did you have your e-brake engaged the entire time the car sat idle? It's possible that the ebrake has become completely engaged, despite the handle being in the released position.

 

It probably was engaged the whole time. How do I release it now--the handle goes down.

 

Since you were able to drive your car even with the noise, I think your drum(s) is not stuck and can be removed.

I would remove them drums and see if linings/shoes are in good condition. If they are thin or making metal to metal contact with the drum, replace those affected parts with new. Also make sure cables for e-brakes are free to move.

 

I have the wheel off and there is a rusty hub? ( told you I wasn't a mechanic). Should the outer part come off? It seems to be stuck on.

Thanks again

john