What could be wrong here?

Question

I own a 1997 Dodge Intrepid. I was driving it today and the "Check Engine" bs light turned on. Then the car started to smell really hot, but the temp gage didnt move at all. When i got out of my car my back right brake was smoking and my wheel was covered in brake dust. Why did my brake suddenly lock up?

I did not leave my E-brake/parking brake on, never use it.

Answer 1

this is usually caused by dirt that get,s caught in the master cylinder and wind,s up in the wheel cylinder,,it eventually will cause the brake to lock,,just depend,s on what wheel it wind,s up in,,but it usually does exactly like you described,,also in some cases the emergency brake wont release al the way,,and this will cause it,,dirt or rust will cause the emergency brake not to release al the way,,or sometime,s something can get caught up between the brake release mechanism,,and cause it not to release,,either way,,now your going to have to have it checked and repaired,,because if it got this hot,,it has probably warped the rotor and ruined the brake pad,s or shoes on that side,,hope this help,s.

Answer 2

The brake locked up if you have four wheel disc brakes and never use the e-brakes this can cause the caliper to lock up prematurely. By using the e-brake it keeps the actuator from locking up.

What ever the problem have it repaired and do yourself a favor and have the brake fluid flushed. the excessive heat will brake down the fluid and your brakes will never feel right again if you don't. Also replace all hardware on the rear brakes because the heat will toast them.

ASE Master Tech 27 Years

Answer 3

Check your brake fluid,also check your ABS sensor on the rear wheel,Probably have it put on the dyno machine,Best to leave your brakes to professionals!

Answer 4

Did you leave your park brake on?

Answer 5

maybe you left your parking brake on or maybe a wheel cylinder stuck open.