An emergency brake operates on the cable connected to the axle and the hand lever. The first thing to consider if the emergency brake is not working is to inspect the cable and repair it meaningfully.
A parking brake or emergency brake is one of the essential elements of a car. Your car always needs a break after a successful trip.
A professional driver never forgets to engage the emergency brake in any situation, whether it’s on hills or any parking area.
Emergency brakes operate via a manual lever. As the name suggests, the main purpose of parking brakes is to prevent the car from inflating when parked.
Let’s discuss below “how to fix this problem” in the car.
What to do when an emergency brake is not working? The troubleshooting process
The parking brake or emergency brake is just like the ordinary pedal brake engaged to stop the car. However, things are a bit different with emergency brakes because they ensure that the car does not move.
The parking brake works through a manually operated lever located in the middle of the passenger and driver’s seat.
Professionals call this process the braking mechanism connected via a parking brake cable. This cable is the first thing to watch when the hand brake is not working.
So let’s talk about the entire troubleshooting process to get rid of it right now.
1. Inspect the cable for possible bumps or twists
The general problem with an emergency brake is that the cable starts to twist or bump in certain places. As soon as the car continues to slide even after pulling the brake lever, no luck!
The emergency brakes are gone. The first measure to take after the emergency brake is not working is to inspect the entire cable from the hand lever to the wheel drums. Examine the cable for folds, bumps, or cuts and proceed with the process.
2. Repair or replace
This problem can occur even after driving on bumpy roads. The holes cause misalignment of the cable and interfere with the braking system.
If that’s the case, put the cable in place and try to align it perfectly. Alternatively, if the emergency brake still doesn’t work, replace it in no time.
3. Clean the brake drums
Dusty or dirty brake drums are common problems related to brake failure. Dirt starts to mix with the oil and leads to brake choking.
Clean all dirt and oil from the brake jaws and brake drums to avoid these tricky situations. Opting for expert maintenance tips can help you endure these circumstances.
FAQ
- How can I diagnose my parking brake problem?
To diagnose the problem, you can start by inspecting the parking brake lever, cables, and brake system components.
Look for visible damage or signs of wear. Additionally, you may need to check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir.
- Can I drive my vehicle with a non-functional parking brake?
It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with a non-functional parking brake, as it can compromise safety, especially when parking on slopes or inclines.
A faulty parking brake can also lead to increased wear on the transmission parking pawl.
- How much does it typically cost to repair a parking brake?
The cost of repairing a parking brake can vary significantly depending on the make and model of your vehicle and the extent of the damage. It is best to consult a mechanic or automotive technician for an accurate estimate.
- Is it possible to repair the parking brake myself or should I seek professional help?
Repairing a parking brake can be a complex task that requires knowledge of the brake system and the right tools. If you have no experience in automotive repair, it is generally recommended to seek a qualified mechanic.
- Are there maintenance tips to avoid parking brake problems?
Regular maintenance, such as inspecting and lubricating parking brake components, can help prevent problems.
Additionally, following proper parking procedures, such as not engaging the parking brake when the vehicle is moving, can extend the system’s lifespan.
- Is the parking brake related to the vehicle’s regular braking system?
Although the parking brake and the ordinary braking system share some components, they are separate systems.
The ordinary braking system is primarily responsible for slowing or stopping the vehicle when it is moving, while the parking brake is used to keep the vehicle stationary when parked.
- Can a faulty parking brake affect vehicle safety inspections or emissions tests?
Depending on your local regulations, a faulty parking brake could potentially affect your vehicle’s ability to pass safety inspections.
It is essential to address any parking brake issues to ensure your vehicle complies with safety standards.
Wrap Up
That’s all! Here are some of the troubleshooting tips to consider when the emergency brake is not working properly.
Remember that the parking brake is a crucial safety element in your vehicle, so it’s important to address any issues promptly to ensure your safety and that of others on the road.
Keep these essential tips in mind to tolerate these conditions in no time!