If your vehicle is showing vehicle feels like it is dragging or holding back when driving normally, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.
Rust or lack of lubrication can cause the brake caliper pistons or slide pins to stick. This keeps the brake pads constantly pressed against the rotor, creating a physical drag on the vehicle.
The parking brake cable can rust and bind inside its housing, or the internal shoe hardware can fail. This prevents the rear parking brakes from fully releasing when the lever is disengaged.
The inner rubber lining of an aging brake hose can deteriorate and collapse, acting as a one-way valve. It allows fluid pressure to apply the brakes but prevents the pressure from releasing, causing the caliper to drag.
A restricted or melted catalytic converter chokes the engine's exhaust flow. While not a physical brake drag, this severe loss of engine power makes the vehicle feel like it is being held back during acceleration.
If a brake caliper is accidentally rotated 360 degrees before being bolted back on during a brake job, the brake hose becomes twisted. This restricts fluid return and causes the brake to drag heavily.
A clogged fuel filter or a weak fuel pump starves the engine of fuel under load. This creates a sluggish, holding-back sensation that mimics drivetrain drag.
A severely damaged wheel bearing can bind up and create massive rolling resistance. This is usually accompanied by a loud roaring or grinding noise that changes pitch with vehicle speed.