The parking brake cable or emergency brake cable is a thin steel cable located underneath your car. It connects the parking brake lever to the parking brake shoe. With time, the parking brake cable can be exposed to rust and will eventually break. In such a situation, parking brake replacement becomes necessary or you won’t be able to stop the car even after engaging the parking brakes.
What does Emergency/ Parking Brake Cable Do?
You must already be aware that when you apply the brake, the brake fluid creates friction between the rotor/drum (rotor in case of disc brake system and drum in case of drum brake system) and the brake shoe/ brake pad. And this friction makes the car slow down and stop at the right moment.
In the case of parking or emergency brakes, this same function is performed by the parking brake cables instead of the brake fluid. This means if these cables are broken, your car won’t be able to stop even after applying the parking brakes which could prove to be a safety hazard and hence needs immediate attention.
Why do you need a Parking Brake Cable Replacement?
This is no secret that having a properly functioning brake system is pertinent to your safety while driving. And to have a properly functioning brake system, you need to ensure that all small and large brake system components are working fine. A malfunction in the smallest brake component can sometimes cost you dearly. So, during your regular car service, get all the braking components thoroughly inspected and ensure everything is in order.
Moreover, if you ignore a small issue like parking brake cable replacement, it can often compound into something more complicated and expensive, So, our recommendation – if the parking brake cable is broken, replace it.
Suggested for you: Tyre Rotation Service
When should you replace the Parking Brake Cables?
Some of the common symptoms of a broken parking brake cable are:
- If the parking brake is unable to hold your car after being engaged
- When you press the parking brake, it doesn’t release
- The Parking Brake warning light on your dashboard is automatically illuminated
How is Parking Brake Cable Replacement Done?
The process of removing and replacing the parking brake cable is pretty simple and straightforward. If you face any of the above-stated issues, contact a reliable mechanic. They will inspect the car braking system and verify if the parking brake cable needs replacement. If it does, the replacement will be done as follows:
- The broken or faulty parking brake cable is removed
- Install a new emergency/parking brake cable
- Adjust the parking brake
- Test the parking brake for proper operation.
At this point, it’s worth mentioning that in a lot of cases, the mechanic might have to remove the brake drums or brake pads to access the parking brake cable. In such scenarios, ask your mechanic to check the drums and pads as well to ensure everything is running smoothly and no additional repairs or replacements are needed.
Finally
If you find it hard to apply the parking brakes, take your car to an expert mechanic for parking brake cable replacement. Too busy or stuck at work? Don’t worry, just fill in your requirements on Swezo and we will take care of the rest.
