I have a 2003 x-type, 2.5 and I am experiencing an odd problem. At highway speeds my left front brake will without provocation start to grab and release, at least that is what it feels like. I will get a mild vibration (wobble) and it will build until the steering wheel shake. If I apply the brakes while this is happening the car has a severe shudder. If I continue to drive the problem resolves itself and the car rides smooth and quiet. I have replaced the caliper, caliper guide pins, rotor and pads to no avail. Could the ABS sensor have anything to do with this? Can not think of anything else to do. Help would be appreciated.

If you have some advice please email me at
vicmoschella@netscape.net

 

ABS? Maybe....Maybe also the DTC kicking in....But there may be a wheel sensor involved in either case..Check those guys out next for broken or loose wires and dirt on the sensor tips.

 

Do you have any warning lights showing on the dash? From what you describe I would think there would be. If so, have the codes read and post here and someone will be able to quickly diagnose for you.

 

No warning lights on. I do not know what DTC stands for, please explain. Do I remove the sensors and wipe them off?

 

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is (are) read through the OBD2 connector.

If you have some stored, post them here.

What is the condition of the outer constant velocity joint and wheel bearing?

 

I think DPK meant to say that the DSC (not DTC) was kicking in, meaning that the car thinks the wheel is slipping and therefore is applying the brakes to slow the wheel down. If your car is equipped with DSC (button on the center console that shows a car skidding back and forth), press the button once to turn off the DSC and see if the problem continues. If the problem continues or your car is not equipped with DSC, then you are most likely looking at an ABS issue or a caliper that is starting to go bad.

 

Neither ABS or DSC will provoke this.

Bad suspension or cv joints might.