Just had this problem myself on my 98 escort ZX2 this weekend as well. I found out that it was the Brake cable that was seized up. With the brake lever in the down position does it fell loose when you pull on it if so Try to find out which side that is sticking on you and look into getting it replaced soon. If let good too long it would wear out the brake shoes quickly. I replaced myself with a little help from my Haynes manual. Cost is about $41 for the part. If done at dealer, I'd imagine it would be about $150.
Hope I helped
Hank, March 2007
