* Warped rotors: This is a very common cause. Overheating (e.g., hard braking, prolonged downhill braking) can warp the brake rotors, causing pulsation and jerking as the caliper pads contact the uneven surface.
* Worn brake pads: Severely worn brake pads can cause uneven braking and jerking, especially if one pad is worn more than others.
* Sticking caliper: A caliper piston that's sticking or not retracting properly can cause uneven pressure on the brake pad, leading to jerking. This could be due to corrosion or a problem with the caliper itself.
* Contaminated brake fluid: Dirty or low brake fluid can affect braking performance and potentially cause jerking.
* ABS issues: While less likely to cause *only* jerking, problems within the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) can lead to unusual braking behavior. This might manifest as a pulsing or jerking feeling.
* Damaged brake lines or hoses: Leaking or damaged brake lines can lead to inconsistent brake pressure and jerking.
* Drum brakes (if applicable): If your truck has rear drum brakes, issues such as worn or damaged shoes, a sticking wheel cylinder, or a problem with the self-adjuster could cause jerking.
It is strongly recommended that you do not continue driving the truck with jerking brakes. Have a qualified mechanic inspect the braking system to diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs. Ignoring this issue could lead to a serious accident.
