The parking brake, also known as the handbrake or emergency brake, is a crucial safety feature in vehicles that prevents the vehicle from rolling or moving when parked on an incline. However, when the parking brake keeps coming on, it can be frustrating and even alarming. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the possible reasons why your parking brake keeps coming on and what you can do to resolve the issue.
It’s essential to address this problem promptly, as a faulty parking brake can compromise your safety and the safety of others on the road. Moreover, ignoring the issue can lead to further damage to your vehicle’s braking system, resulting in costly repairs. In this article, we will delve into the causes of a malfunctioning parking brake, symptoms to look out for, and steps to diagnose and fix the problem.
Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a newcomer to the world of vehicles, understanding the parking brake’s behavior is vital for your safety and the well-being of your vehicle. So, let’s dive into the world of parking brakes and explore the reasons behind this pesky problem.
Table of Contents
Causes of a Malfunctioning Parking Brake
The parking brake system consists of several components, including the parking brake lever, cables, and brake shoes. When any of these components malfunction, it can cause the parking brake to engage unexpectedly. Here are some possible causes of a malfunctioning parking brake:
Worn-Out or Damaged Brake Shoes
The brake shoes are responsible for applying pressure to the brake drums when the parking brake is engaged. Over time, the brake shoes can wear out, causing the parking brake to engage prematurely. If the brake shoes are damaged or worn out, it can lead to a faulty parking brake.
Signs of worn-out brake shoes:
- Brake shoes are excessively worn or damaged
- Brake drums are excessively worn or scored
- Parking brake engages unexpectedly
Clogged or Damaged Parking Brake Cables
The parking brake cables connect the parking brake lever to the brake shoes. If the cables are clogged or damaged, it can cause the parking brake to engage unexpectedly. Clogged cables can be caused by dirt, dust, or moisture accumulation, while damaged cables can be caused by wear and tear or accidents.
Signs of clogged or damaged parking brake cables:
- Cables are excessively worn or damaged
- Cables are clogged with dirt or dust
- Parking brake engages unexpectedly
Malfunctioning Parking Brake Lever
The parking brake lever is responsible for engaging and disengaging the parking brake. If the lever is malfunctioning, it can cause the parking brake to engage unexpectedly. A malfunctioning parking brake lever can be caused by wear and tear, accidents, or improper maintenance.
Signs of a malfunctioning parking brake lever:
- Lever is excessively worn or damaged
- Lever is stuck or jammed
- Parking brake engages unexpectedly
Other Possible Causes
Other possible causes of a malfunctioning parking brake include:
- Loose or corroded connections
- Incorrect parking brake adjustment
- Brake fluid leaks or contamination
- Electrical issues with the parking brake system
Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Parking Brake
The symptoms of a malfunctioning parking brake can vary depending on the cause of the problem. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
Unintended Parking Brake Engagement
The most common symptom of a malfunctioning parking brake is unintended engagement. This can occur when the parking brake engages unexpectedly, even when the vehicle is not parked on an incline. (See Also: How to Bleed Brake Drums? Properly And Safely)
Causes of unintended parking brake engagement:
- Worn-out or damaged brake shoes
- Clogged or damaged parking brake cables
- Malfunctioning parking brake lever
