hey guys i was riding in my friend's '95 pontiac sunfire yesterday and her breaks jammed up twice in our total of 30 minutes car ride. it was raining something terrible but they still shouldn't have done that right? like i heard this big bump, and we skidded a little, and we were seriously going only 5 mph if that in a parking lot. it is important to get it fixed b/c she has a one yr. old daughter and obviously wouldn't want to put her or anyone else in danger. i guess she should just go get this checked out? or is it something her husband could fix?
sorry so dumb...just concerned for her.
Thanks,

 

Around that vintage, mid 80's, GM had a problem with the proportioning valves. That valve regulates how much pressure is applied to the rear brakes in relation to the front. The proportioning valve may be sending too much pressure to the rear brakes, causing them to lock up.

It would help if she/he could determine which wheel(s) or end of the car is locking up. Of course, it could be something else that needs attention in the brake system.

Bald tires aren't any good in the rain, either.

 

My GF had a 92 beretta that had the ABSOLUTE WORST excuse for "ABS" I have ever experienced. locked up all the time, especially in the wet, when you need it most. Car did this from day one, zero miles. repeated trips to the dealer resulted in a "this is normal" and "nothing is wrong" from service advisors. bullshit! ABS computer would sense wheel slide, release brakes, and NEVER REENGAGE!!! Car was downright scary. I am glad to see it gone. Sorry for the rant, but my point is, this: It's a GM, don't expect too much. there honestly could be nothing "wrong" with the car, unless you count poor design.

Yes she should get this checked out, and I'd reccoment NOT taking it to the dealer. try to find somebody who works on GM cars a lot, but does NOT have a GM sign hanging over his/her door.

 

eeek...that sucks...all of it...that is what i advised her to do is to get it checked out by a professional. but i guess not by the GM ppl. thanks for your input! i appreciate it....

PS--the sound sounded like it came from the rear left hand side--to me at least.

Thanks!