Brakes locking up

[James McGrath]

I've been having a problem with the Diplomat where the ABS engages really easily while braking. It tends to happen if I brake fairly firmly but can happen when I only brake lightly too.

I've tried pulling out the ABS fuse and thus disengaging it and I think the offside rear brake is locking up as it skids and the back end veers quite heavily to the left.

Are there any ideas as to what is causing this?

[Cavalier342]

ABS rings on the hubs? Mine are well worn on the V6 and the traction control constantly plays up and the ABS kicks in every now and then when it shouldn't.

With regard to the rear brakes, usually after a heavy rain period I drive off slowly with the handbrake applied until the squeaking/binding goes away then it is perfectly normal. But yes I have had the same problem before on both my Cavaliers, one has ABS, the other doesn't.

[Envoy CDX]

What condition are the brakes in? Is it a case of the calipers are sticking on?
If you've pulled the ABS fuse, then the ABS system should not be able to activate.

Or the compensator valve is not working correctly.
Best to have a look at what its all like underneath.

[planetc]

If you are having trouble with one corner, that is obvious with the abs fuse removed, then it's likely that the caliper on that corner is sticking.

[Super89]

Pads or caliper sticking as others have said.