* Sticking Caliper Piston: The caliper piston is responsible for pushing the brake pads against the rotor. If it's sticking, it might not fully retract after the initial brake application (even if light), leading to the wheel being slightly held. The heat generated from initial movement can sometimes free up the piston enough for it to release its grip, explaining why the problem goes away after a short distance. This is the most common culprit in this scenario.
Other, less likely possibilities include:
* Brake Hose Issue: A partially blocked or kinked brake hose could restrict fluid flow, leading to pressure buildup in that caliper. However, this is less likely to be intermittent.
* Parking Brake Cable: Though less probable, a slightly sticking parking brake cable on that side could contribute to the initial binding. However, this is usually more of a constant drag rather than an intermittent issue.
* Brake Pad Problem (less likely): A brake pad that's warped or unusually stuck to the rotor could cause a similar problem, but again, usually less intermittent.
What to Do:
1. Don't Drive It: Driving with a sticking brake is dangerous. It could lead to brake fade (loss of braking power) or even an accident.
2. Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the driver-side rear brake caliper, hose, and parking brake cable for any obvious signs of damage, kinks, or sticking.
3. Professional Mechanic: The best course of action is to have a qualified mechanic inspect your brake system. They have the tools and experience to diagnose the problem accurately and safely repair it. A sticking caliper piston usually requires disassembly, cleaning, lubrication, and potentially replacement of the piston or even the entire caliper.
Important Safety Note: Brake problems are serious. Don't attempt to fix this yourself unless you have extensive experience working on brakes. Improper brake repair can lead to dangerous situations.
