How to Adjust Rear Parking Brakes

Parking brakes are designed to stop a vehicle from moving when in a stationary position. Continual use of the brake can cause it to become worn or in need of an adjustment. The parking brake is an important component to ensure safe travel when in your vehicle and should be regularly monitored. If an adjustment or replacement is required then this must be carried out immediately before any future travel in the vehicle is undertaken.

Instructions

1

Place your vehicle on a sloping road and employ the parking brake. Determine how long it takes for your brake to engage. Once two thirds of the way engaged, the vehicle should come to a complete stop. If the brake was not completely engaged before it was fully pressed, it will require an adjustment.

2

Raise your vehicle on a car lift and locate the parking brake underneath the car.

3

Use a wrench to adjust the parking break. This can be done by tightening the lug nut which holds the brake cable in place.

4

Test the vehicle's parking brake again on a sloping road. Take note of the point which the brake engages once it has been pressed.

5

If the parking brake is still incorrect, repeat the process until the desired result is obtained. Be sure not to make the brake too tight as this will result in it always being engaged.