How to Check a Rear Parking Brake Cable

The rear parking brake cable is most easily checked on most vehicles from inside the cabin and at the rear wheels. The parking brake cable is responsible for locking the rear wheels up while you are parked on a hill where there is the possibility that your vehicle might roll. It's a good idea to check the parking brake cable every six months to ensure that it is showing no signs of wear and tear and that it is not damaged.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel blocks

1. Place wheel blocks under the front wheels.

2. Get in the car and remove the screws holding the center console in place (if your parking brake is between the driver and passenger seats).

3. Pull up the center console around the parking brake and examine the cable. If it looks damaged or frayed, you'll need to have it serviced by a professional mechanic. If your parking brake is in the driver foot well, then climb down in the foot well and examine the brake cable attached to the back of the pedal to make sure that it is not damaged.

4. Jack up the vehicle in the rear by using the rear jack point behind the trunk.

5. Place jack stands under the rear pinch welds and lower the vehicle onto the jack stands.

6. Climb under the vehicle and check the parking brake cable for damage to any exposed cable line. A damaged cable should be repaired immediately by a professional mechanic.

7. Lower the vehicle to the ground and engage the parking brake. You may want to park the vehicle on a hill to test the brake. You should be able to lock the wheels up with the parking brake within 3-5 clicks on the parking brake. If you are able to push the brake farther than this without locking up the wheels, then your parking brake or rear brakes require service by a professional mechanic.

References

• "Auto Repair For Dummies; Deanna Sclar", IDG Books Worldwide; 1999

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