Parking Brake Cable Replacement

Mobile Parking Brake Cable Replacement at Home or Office

A parking brake cable links the control to the brake's mechanical assembly. A working parking brake is needed to keep a car stationary on inclines. The parking brake system is fitted to every vehicle as an auxiliary braking system whose primary job is to hold the vehicle stationary while not in use. When parking the vehicle and leaving it unattended, it is good practice to engage the parking brake as a means to keep the vehicle stationary. This proves to work best when parking on hills or inclines where you really want the vehicle to stay put instead of sliding down the hill while you are away.

What is Parking Brake Cable Replacement?

The parking brake cable is a thin, steel cable that connects the parking brake lever to the parking brake shoes. It is located underneath the car. When you pull the lever, this cable enables the parking brake shoes to press against the rotor or drum, creating the friction that keeps the car from rolling. It is just like using the brake pedal, but in this case, you are using the parking brake cable instead of brake fluids to apply the pressure. Over time the cable can rust and break. If the parking brake cable is broken, the car will roll even when the parking brake has been engaged.

How is Parking Brake Cable Replacement Done?

1. Jack up and support car
2. Remove brake cable from rear connection
3. Remove cable from parking brake pedal assembly
4. Install new cable
5. Insert the front end of the cable in the hole in the body and push.
6. Slide the new cable into the groove on the pedal assembly and seat firmly.
7. Pulling the slack out of the cable as you go, re-secure all clips and clamps previously removed.
8. Using the wire cutters, pull the cable taut and slide into the rear connection.
9. Adjust the cable so there's very limited slack.
10. Engage the parking brake pedal to check tension. Readjust if necessary.
11. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle.
12. Clean tools and put away.

Recommendations

Always apply the parking brake when the car is parked. This will keep the parking brake adjusted properly. Wrench mobile mechanic will inspect the parking brake cable during every brake service. They should also periodically spray rust penetrant chemical on the cable to prevent rust from building up.

Symptoms That Indicate You Need A Parking Brake Cable Replacement

• Parking brake warning light is on.
• Parking brake does not hold car.
• Parking brake does not release.

Parking brake cable replacement doesn't have to be a mystery, as long as you take care and have the right tools and parts. If the parking brake cable starting to look serious, call Wrench mobile mechanic for the next opportunity and start talking about getting them replaced safely.