How to Check Parking Brake for Excessive Wear: Essential Tips You Need to Know

Your parking brake, also known as the emergency brake, is a vital safety feature that keeps your vehicle stationary when parked. Over time, the brake shoes or pads can wear down, requiring replacement. Knowing how to check your parking brake for excessive wear can help you prevent costly repairs and ensure your safety on the road.

Why is Checking Your Parking Brake Essential?

A worn-out parking brake can lead to various problems, including:

• Vehicle Roll-Away: A weakened parking brake might not be able to hold your vehicle on an incline, leading to potential accidents.
• Reduced Braking Efficiency: A worn parking brake can compromise the overall braking system’s effectiveness, making it harder to stop your car.
• Uneven Wear: If one side of the brake is wearing down faster than the other, it can lead to uneven braking and handling issues.
• Costly Repairs: Ignoring a worn parking brake can result in more significant and expensive repairs later.

How Often Should You Check Your Parking Brake?

While there’s no set time frame for checking your parking brake, it’s a good practice to inspect it:

• Monthly: Conduct a quick visual inspection to ensure the brake lever or pedal is engaging properly and that there are no visible signs of damage.
• Every 6 Months: Perform a more thorough check to assess the brake’s holding power and look for signs of wear.
• After Any Maintenance: If you have your brakes serviced or any other work done on your vehicle, it’s essential to check the parking brake afterward.

Visual Inspection: The First Step

Before you start any tests, a visual inspection can provide valuable insights.

1. Locate the Parking Brake Lever or Pedal: Depending on your vehicle, the parking brake might be a lever located near the driver’s seat or a pedal on the floor.
2. Check for Damage: Look for any signs of damage to the lever, pedal, or cable. This could include cracks, breaks, rust, or loose connections.
3. Inspect the Brake Cable: If you can access the brake cable, look for any signs of fraying, corrosion, or excessive slack.

The “Pull Test” Method: Assessing Holding Power

The pull test is a simple and effective method to check the parking brake’s holding power.

1. Engage the Parking Brake: Apply the parking brake firmly until you feel it engage.
2. Shift Into Neutral (or Park): If your vehicle has a manual transmission, shift into neutral. For automatics, place the gear selector in “Park.”
3. Apply Gentle Pressure to the Accelerator: Slowly press the accelerator pedal to see if the vehicle starts moving.
4. Observe the Results: If the vehicle begins to roll, your parking brake is not holding properly and needs attention.

The “Roll Test”: A More Detailed Examination

The roll test provides a more comprehensive assessment of your parking brake‘s effectiveness.

1. Find a Gentle Incline: Locate a slight incline, such as a driveway or a hill.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: Apply the parking brake firmly until you feel it engage.
3. Release the Foot Brake: Slowly release the foot brake and observe the vehicle’s movement.
4. Assess the Results: If the vehicle rolls backward even slightly, your parking brake needs adjustment or repair.

Identifying Excessive Wear: Signs to Watch For

While visual inspections and tests can help determine whether your parking brake is holding, certain signs can indicate excessive wear:

• Loose Parking Brake Lever or Pedal: If the lever or pedal feels loose or doesn’t engage firmly, it might indicate worn-out brake shoes or pads.
• Frequent Adjustments: If you need to adjust the parking brake frequently to maintain its holding power, it’s likely that the brake components are wearing down.
• Grinding or Squeaking Sounds: These sounds during braking can signify worn-out brake shoes or pads rubbing against the brake drum or rotor.
• Increased Distance to Engage: If you need to pull the lever or push the pedal further than usual to engage the parking brake, it’s a strong indicator of wear.

Seeking Professional Help: When to Consult a Mechanic

If you notice any of the signs of excessive wear, it’s crucial to consult a qualified mechanic. They can:

• Inspect the Parking Brake System: A mechanic will thoroughly examine the brake shoes, pads, cables, and other components to assess the extent of wear.
• Perform Necessary Repairs: If they find any worn-out parts, they will replace them with new ones.
• Adjust the Parking Brake: The mechanic can adjust the parking brake to ensure it’s operating correctly and holding the vehicle securely.

Maintaining a Safe Parking Brake: Tips for Longevity

• Regular Inspections: Perform regular visual inspections and tests to monitor the parking brake’s performance.
• Avoid Excessive Use: Use the parking brake only when necessary, as frequent use can lead to premature wear.
• Proper Adjustment: Ensure the parking brake is adjusted correctly to maintain its holding power.
• Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks with a qualified mechanic to keep your parking brake in optimal condition.

Parking Brake Care: A Lifelong Companion

A well-maintained parking brake is a vital safety feature that can help prevent accidents and ensure your peace of mind. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can check your parking brake for excessive wear and address any issues promptly. Remember, a little preventive maintenance goes a long way in keeping your vehicle safe and reliable.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: What is the difference between a parking brake and an emergency brake?

A: The terms “parking brake” and “emergency brake” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to the same system designed to hold your vehicle stationary when parked. However, “parking brake” emphasizes its role in keeping the vehicle secure, while “emergency brake” highlights its use in emergencies.

Q: Can I adjust my parking brake myself?

A: Adjusting a parking brake can be done by some individuals, but it’s generally recommended to consult a qualified mechanic. Incorrect adjustments can compromise the brake’s effectiveness and even damage the system.

Q: How often should I get my parking brake professionally inspected?

A: It’s a good idea to have your parking brake inspected by a mechanic at least once a year, or more often if you notice any signs of wear or malfunction.

Q: What are the signs of a bad parking brake cable?

A: A bad parking brake cable might show signs of fraying, corrosion, excessive slack, or difficulty in engaging the brake. If you notice any of these, it’s crucial to have it inspected and potentially replaced.

Q: What is the cost of replacing a parking brake?

A: The cost of replacing a parking brake can vary depending on the vehicle model, the extent of the repairs, and the labor rates in your area. It’s best to consult with a mechanic for an accurate estimate.