Have a 08 TL with AT ( 135k ) and have a brake issue. In January 2023 had rotors and pads replaced in rear. I felt a drag on car after a few weeks. Car didn't feel like it was coasting when approaching a red light, felt slow, like brakes were on slightly. Felt better after a few eeks. Fast forward --- Car sat from end of February till 15th of March. Aired up tires and took it for a ride. I could smell brake pad lining and knew something was up. Checked rear wheels and they were hot as hell. Gingerly drove it home taking side streets. Put a thermometer on rears and was approaching 180 degrees vs 70 to 80 degrees in front. Took it back to shop that installed rotors and pads, and was told its not calipers or pads, but problem was further up the system, and they could not help any further. Not sure what it could be ( ABS , proportioning valve, brake line ?? ).
Was referred to another local shop ( better with tech issues) nearby and explained issue. Typical $125 diagnostic check fee and they could go from there. Hoping this doesn't get too pricey. Anyone else have similar problem, please chime in. Any advise is appreciated.

Hifijoe

 

Brake hose? Maybe it's even parking brake.

 

Hoping its that simple. Parking brake disconnected years ago.

 

Question. Were the rear brake’s dragging or heating up Before the new brakes and rotors were installed? Isn’t it a coincidence that dragging brakes started after brake job? Verify this consideration. If verified then they probably missed something during installation. If calipers weren’t sticking, then they may not have lubed the caliper pins or brake pad guide hardware. Either of these installation oversights could cause binding brake pads that don’t engage/disengage the pads correctly when you depress the brake pedal. Get a good mechanic to verify correct installation.

 

I agree. What the brake shop is claiming makes no sense whatsoever. Why weren't the brake pads dragging before THEY worked on it?

 

I wouldn’t believe the shop, definitely sounds like calipers to me

 

The fact that the mechanic that installed the pads didn’t offer to check his work is telling. Definitely don’t go back to this mechanic.

 

Yeah, taking it to a different shop in A.M. Lube on the caliper pins and pad hardware makes sense. Been using this shop since mid 80's and you would think that's basic brake job knowledge, but sometimes the help doesn't check their work. You are correct in that it didnt drag before brake job. No ABS light.

 

Couldn't your temperature gun diagnose this one? Temp of outer edge of rotor vs temp of parking brake drum

 

How did they rule the calipers out?

Dragging brakes is usually caliper related. Especially since your car isn't driven everyday makes it even easier for the slide pins or pistons to freeze up.

 

Rear calipers on these cars suck ass. I would suspect the caliper to be the issue as well.