What causes the parking brake to become stuck?
The parking brake cable can become rusted, resulting in it becoming stuck or hard to move.
The parking brake (also known as the handbrake, foot brake emergency brake) is an important component that reduces the load on the transmission and improves safety when parked on a hill. When you pull the parking brake, it engages the cable, which runs underneath your car to the back wheels. As the cable engages, it pulls a lever which prevents the car from moving.
Learn more about how the parking brake works
If you’ve ever had a stuck parking brake, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only is it difficult to release the brake, but it can also be a safety hazard if you’re unable to properly engage the brake while parked.
When the parking brake becomes stuck, it can become difficult to drive. The parking brake and surrounding brake components will be subject to increased wear and brake warning light will stay on. For this reason, it is important to fix the problem before more damage occurs.
Below are some of the most common causes of a stuck parking brake:
- Damaged parking brake cable – The parking brake cable forms a connection between the handbrake/footbrake and your car’s brake discs or shoes. The cable can become corroded over time, resulting in it losing effectiveness and becoming stuck.
Parking brake cable replacement in Hamilton - Damaged brake drum adjuster screw – In brake shoe/drum systems, an adjuster screw is used. If the screw becomes stuck, the parking brake will not disengage.
- Parking brake engaged too hard – Applying too much force when engaging the parking brake can cause it to become stuck. This happens can happen due to the cable being stretched too far or the brake shoe being stuck against the walls of the drum.
Stuck Parking Brake Diagnostics & Replacement in Hamilton
Has your car’s handbrake or footbrake become stuck? If so, we can help! At Grimmer Motors, our team of experienced mechanics can quickly diagnose and fix your parking brake issues. This will allow you to drive your car again without brake damage occurring.
In addition to parking brake adjustment and replacement, we also offer regular brake maintenance services to help prevent issues with your parking brake. Our team can perform services like brake pad replacement and rotor resurfacing to keep your brakes in top condition.
If you’re experiencing problems with your parking brake, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our team of skilled mechanics is ready to help you get your car back on the road safely. With Grimmer Motors, you can trust that your parking brake will be repaired correctly and ready to use.