2005 Grand Prix GTP Rear Brake Issue

[whitefeathersnpr]

I recently discovered my rear brakes are not functioning. I was removing the lug nuts from the rear wheel while on jack stands. I had a friend holding the brakes down for me. The wheel still spun freely. He had to stand on the brakes with all his weight to keep the wheel from spinning while I was removing the lug nuts. Looking at the rotor, there is a nice film of dust with only a few smudges on it. The e-brake is depressing and unlocking normally, but provides no actual braking when pressed. I have not had done any work on the brakes since I purchased the car several years ago (none appeared to be needed). Any suggestions on the possible cause and fixes would be greatly appreciated. I would hate to go and replace the calipers if the issue is somewhere else.

Thanks,
J.

 

[matt5112]

Thats most likely where your issue lies.

You will need to remove it to see if you can move the piston.

You will need to push and turn the piston.

 

[Scottydoggs]

in the future, always break the lug nuts free with the car still on the ground, then jack it up. makes it a one man operation that way.

i would start with bleeding that caliper first. like matt said check to see the caliper is working and check your pads, they could be worn to nothing.

just by simply turning the piston back in, then go inside the car and push the brake pedal, if the caliper piston comes back out, its all good.

if it wont turn back in, then you know the caliper is sized up.

 

[MidnightGT]

was this on both sides or just passenger or driver's side?

 

[whitefeathersnpr]

was this on both sides or just passenger or driver's side?

It appears to be just the passenger side. It looks like I will start by bleeding the caliper and go from there.

J

 

[BillBoost37]

Typically not the issue. However. Try bleeding that side. If you get no fluid, you have a brake line lissue (like rusted and closed itself up). Wasn't long ago I found one of these. Ended up being rusted where a plastic clip held the line in the middle of the body on a nice straight run. Wasn't too bad to replace that piece, then the line bled perfectly.