INSPECTION PROCEDURE 1: Vehicle Pulls to One Side when Brakes are Applied: Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

STEP 1. Check for oil, water, etc., on the pad contact surface of all brakes.
Q: Is oil, water, etc., on the pad contact surface?

YES : Replace the part and determine the source/cause of foreign material. Then go to Step 5.

NO : Go to Step 2.
STEP 2. Check disk brake pistons for smooth operation.
1. With engine not running, depress the brake pedal rapidly several times to deplete booster vacuum reserves.
2. Test each disk brake assembly one at a time.
  1. Remove the lower caliper bolt, then remove caliper from mount.
  2. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal. Confirm piston(s) extend slowly and smoothly with no jumpiness. Repeat for each disk brake assembly.
Q: Do (does) the piston(s) move correctly?

YES : Go to Step 3.

NO : Disassemble and inspect the brake assembly (Front: refer to DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY , Rear: refer to DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY ). Then go to Step 5.
STEP 3. Check brake disk(s) for runout.
Refer to DISK BRAKE ROTOR CHECK .

Q: Is runout outside of specifications?

YES : Repair or replace the brake disk(s) as necessary. Then go to Step 5.

NO : Go to Step 4.
STEP 4. Check brake disks for correct thickness.
Refer to DISK BRAKE ROTOR CHECK .

Q: Is the thickness outside of specifications?

YES : Repair or replace the brake disk(s) as necessary. Then go to Step 5.

NO : Perform the brake line bleeding. Then go to Step 5.
STEP 5. Retest the system.
Q: Is the symptom eliminated?

YES : The procedure is complete.

NO : Start over at Step 1. If a new symptom appears, refer to the SYMPTOM CHART .