How to Adjust a Neon Rear Brake

As drum brakes wear the clearance between the drum and the shoes increases causing a low brake pedal and a parking brake that doesn't hold the vehicle. The rear drum brakes in your Neon are equipped with a self adjuster to help keep them adjusted properly but eventually they will require adjustment. Proper adjustment of the drum brakes will help ensure that the parking brake functions and the brake pedal travel is correct. This adjustment will take the average home mechanic about an hour to complete.

Instructions

1

Block the front wheels of the Neon using wheel chocks. Lift one side of the rear of the car using the floor jack positioned under the lifting point located under the car approximately four inches in front of the rear wheel opening. Slide a jack stand under the rear axle for extra support and safety.

2

Remove the black rubber plug from the backing plate. In the Neon the rubber plug is located just above the rear axle on the backing plate and is easily removed by prying it out of it's slot with a screwdriver. Use a flashlight to locate the adjuster gear behind the slot in the backing plate.

3

Insert the brake adjusting spoon into the slot and position it on top of the adjuster gear. Pry the adjuster gear down to rotate it and expand the brakes. Spin the tire by hand and continue to rotate the adjuster until there is a slight drag on the drums when the wheel is spun.

4

Push the rubber plug back into the slot. Lift the Neon off the jack stands. Remove the stands from under the car and lower the floor jack slowly. Raise and support the opposite side of the car. Repeat the adjustment procedure for the opposite wheel. Lower the car off the stands and floor jack. Remove the wheel chocks and test drive the Neon to verify the brakes work correctly.