GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

So my wife has a 2004 and WILL NEVER get rid of it. She loves the car. Recently we have had an issue with what seems to be the front brakes. It doesn't happen often enough to be able to get a good read on what happens but it seems like when it does happen it is right after a stop. When you pull away you can hear a rubbing sound. Yesterday it happened on the way home from town. She said it feels.like something is holding her back. Or dragging. When. We got out I poured a little bit of water on rotors through the wheel holes and it sizzles so I know they are locking up. Both sides??
Not sure if it is ABS, mastercylinder, or a redistribution problem.
Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

It's normal for rotors to be that hot after being used. Heat is only a problem if one side is significantly hotter than the other.

You may just need a brake fluid exchange, or new calipers if they're seizing up.

Welcome to genvibe!

A little more info would be helpful- what is the Vibe's mileage and when was the last time the rotors/pads were replaced? Brake fluid replaced? How much pad is left? If you're willing to remove the wheels, it's easy to inspect the pads.

Shouldn't keep pouring water (especially cold water) on hot rotors... wouldn't want to warp them.

A scraping noise could be as simple as rust on the edge of the rotor rubbing against something. Could also be a worn wear indicator that's been ignored.

You can check for seized caliper by putting the car in drive on a level road (parking lot) with the brake pedal pressed, then release the pedal. If the car doesn't want to roll, that could be it.

Unlikely to be ABS without a warning light.

You tube has some GREAT vids on how to diagnose a possible frozen cailper. Just remember if one caliper is frozen the next one will follow shortly after. If one is frozen....change both !!! I changed the passenger side last year and guess what ??? i just changed the driver side this past weekend