There is a long list of reasons that one or all of the brakes on your vehicle might lock up. These can include an overheated braking system, using the wrong brake fluid, damaged or broken parts (calipers, brake pads, pistons, rotors, or others), a defective ABS component, broken parking brake, and more.

What to do when your brakes lock up?

The moment that you feel the brakes start to lock in a car without ABS, you should release the pressure on the pedal entirely and then rapidly pump the brake until the car stops. If your car has anti-lock brakes, to prevent locking up and sliding, you will feel a vibration and pulsing underneath the pedal as you stop.

What causes brakes not to release?

The most common causes of your brakes not releasing is a seized caliper or brake pad. This typically occurs due to rusting or ageing. Typically, you will notice your vehicle pulling to one side when you press down on your brakes.