How I Diagnosed a Seized Caliper Piston

In this video I share my experience with a locked up caliper piston and how I diagnosed it on my 98 Nissan Frontier. While the vehicle featured in the video is a Frontier, caliper designs and points of failure are similar between most makes and models. (Always verify that any information in this video is applicable to the vehicle you are working on by using an appropriate repair manual.) There are a few methods I use in this video that may be helpful to you in your attempt to diagnose the vehicle you are working on. I did make a "more" comprehensive video going into better detail of how to diagnose locking up brakes. You are welcome to watch it. I'll have the link below. However, the video you are currently watching actually features a failed caliper. So, this video will be of help too.

!!Warning!! If your brakes are locked up its going to be very hot just after driving. The whole area that is affected is going to be very hot. Let the vehicle cool down before attempting to diagnose the problem. Don't touch a hot rotor or any hot brake component! Injury can occur. An infrared thermometer would be suggested to verify that the area is cool enough to work on.

Special notes: Some calipers have twist in pistons and will have to be collapsed in using a different method than the one shown in this video. Also, (Very Important) in the process of diagnosing you problem you may have to open the brake system (i.e. opening a bleeder or taking a line loose). If this is the case then you must make sure all the air is removed from the system before driving the vehicle. Brakes do not operate properly with air in the system. Also, of course, any loosened item will have to be tightened back up.

Here is a link to a video where I go into more detail on how to diagnose locked up brakes.
https://youtu.be/1Mor9N9Rv2w

Here is a link to a video that features a locked up brake caliper caused by a clogged brake hose.
https://youtu.be/kD8sBecArkE

Here is a link to a video showing 4 different ways to collapse a brake caliper.
https://youtu.be/3RYG0ymWEFE

How to replace front calipers, rotors, pads and hoses
https://youtu.be/8i245Y1Nu18

Here is a link to a video showing how to collapse a twist in caliper piston. (Usually used on the rear for parking brake applications)
https://youtu.be/hQfV0b75hgI

How to bleed brakes. (Note: special equipment may be needed for some cars which is not shown in the linked video.)
https://youtu.be/6DeuMPgQDrE

Disclaimer:
Barbour's Auto Help is not responsible for any damage or personal injury incurred in the process of performing any auto repairs done by you the viewer. Auto repair and diagnostics are very dangerous.
Repair and diagnose your vehicle at your own risk. It is the viewers responsibility to verify all information and procedures as outlined in YOUR REPAIR MANUAL AND OWNERS MANUAL FOR YOUR VEHICLE. Owning and using a repair manual suited for your vehicle is essential for correctly and safely performing ANY repair to your vehicle. Always wear safety glasses and heed all instructions for use applicable to any piece of equipment you may use. Also, I make no guarantee that the information given in this video is completely accurate for all situations and applications. I also make no guarantee that you will make a proper diagnosis for your problem by using this video. Use the information found in this video at your own risk.