Help me please,








Can the anti braking system (ABS) malfunction cause the brakes on a 2002 Grand Cherokee to run hot. I recently changed brake pads on my jeep, and a couple of the brakes are running hot. I took them apart a couple of times and do not see incorrect installation. So, I am thinking maybe it is the ABS system causing the problem. How ever, I am not sure. Thank you and help. Michael Ange [mange1234@verizon.net]

 

Welcome to CF!

Make absolutely sure the slider pins are lubed well. Be sure the lube gets into the bushings and isn't wiped off the pins when you push them in. The large dual-piston calipers up front can get cocked very easily and drag. I've had nothing but problems with my 2000 since I went to ceramic pads with squeaking when rolling free and staining my wheels with steel powder from the rotors. I'm going back to semi-metalic pads. At least then it was pad dust that washed off.

There also is a tendency for one piston of the pair to not retract fully. I've had this happen twice in 50K miles. I replaced both calipers with ones with phenolic pistons and still had the problem. I WILL say that they work very well when braking hard from speed. They're like throwing out an anchor compared to my 97 ZJ!

I deliver newspapers on a motor route and I go thru a lot of brake pads. The ceramic pads last a lot longer, but the squeaking is driving me nuts! I've eliminated the ABS system by removing the fuses and find my foot works a lot better at controlling my braking.

 

The ABS will not apply pressure to the brakes, it only dumps pressure from the brakes. Certain brands of brake pads will stink like they're hot. You should allow the pads to seat in before you stomp on the pedal hard. It can take up to 500 miles before they fully seat in.

 

Thank you for taking time to help me. I am a retired old guy and do not have access to car repair friends or repair shops. And, can only go on the internet forums for help.


I disconnected the ABS just for trouble shooting. But, have not driven the car long enough to know is that is the problem But, one of our members says (below) the ABS does not apply pressure to the brake pistons. (Good to know and eliminate that test)


I took great care to install the brakes properly. Grease on the pins, etc.
On the front brakes, I took out the new pads to investigate why they were running hot. And, discovered that the brake pad was cracked. I took them back to Auto Zone and they gave me a new pair. Which I very carefully installed. In addition, after installing, the wheel turned freely. Or with a slight drag. As, I understand is normal.


Any way, thanks from an old Veteran (USMC) for your help.


Mike in Virginia Beach

 

Thank you, that is great information. I can put that theory to sleep and keep on trouble shooting.


But, one good thing, I learned about ABS on the car. lol


Us shade tree mechanics have lot to learn.


I will let the brakes seat in and keep the forum posted on results.


Mike in Virginia Beach