thanks for the quick answer. I take it I should take off the wheels on the right side and actuate the brakes while someone watches to make sure they appear to be working? Is it more likely the front or the rear?
also, I am fairly sure that the engine is not the stock one - my dad forgot to have the timing belt replaced a while ago, and the mechanic who checked it for damage after the belt broke said something about it not having the stock engine. By left, you mean the right side of the car, correct?