A parking brake has ONE job. If it can’t do that job, it’s rather useless. Yet parking brake problems are surprisingly common, affecting both manual and electronic systems.
No matter the type of problem, a faulty parking brake can be more than just an annoyance, it’s a safety issue. Let’s look at some of the most common parking brake issues, how to fix them, and what it’ll cost you.
2 Types of Parking Brake Systems
Before getting into the specific problems, let’s go over the two main types of parking brakes you’ll encounter:
- Manual Parking Brakes – These are the traditional systems you operate by hand or foot. You might find a lever between the front seats, a pedal near the footwell, or occasionally a handle on the dashboard.
- Electronic Parking Brakes (EPB) – More common in newer vehicles, these systems engage at the push (or pull) of a button, automatically applying the brake force.
Throughout this article, I’ll specify whether each problem applies to manual systems, electronic systems, or both.
It’s worth noting that “parking brake” goes by several names. You may also hear it referred to as an emergency brake (e-brake), hand brake, auxiliary brake, or emergency parking brake.
While these terms are often used interchangeably, they all refer to the same system designed to keep your vehicle stationary when parked.
Common Parking Brake Problems
Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s get into the details of various parking brake issues. I’ll break down each problem, tell you how to spot it, and give you some DIY fixes to try before you shell out cash at the mechanic.
1) Stuck or Frozen Parking Brake (Both types)
Ever gone to release your parking brake and found it’s stubbornly staying put? You might have a stuck or frozen brake on your hands. This pesky problem can affect both manual and electronic systems, though the causes might differ.
Symptoms:
- Parking brake won’t disengage
- You hear a grinding noise when trying to drive
- The parking brake warning light stays on even after you’ve “released” it
How to Fix:
For starters, don’t panic and don’t force it. If you’ve got a manual system, try gently pulling up on the lever and releasing it a few times. This might help break up any rust or debris causing the stick.
For electronic systems, check your owner’s manual. Many vehicles have a manual release procedure for emergencies. If that doesn’t work, try turning the car on and off again (yes, really – sometimes for electronic issues, it’s that simple).
If you’re dealing with a frozen brake due to cold weather, try letting the car warm up for a bit. The heat from the engine might just do the trick.
Cost:
If you’re lucky, this might be a free fix. But if you need a pro to step in, you could be looking at anywhere from $100 to $400, depending on the extent of the problem and your vehicle type.
2) Parking Brake Not Holding (Both types)
If after engaging your parking brake you feel a subtle, unnerving sensation of your car still creeping forward or backward, it’s not doing its job. Hopefully, this is something you’ll notice before getting out of the vehicle.
Symptoms:
- Car rolls even when the parking brake is fully engaged
- You need to put the car in gear (manual transmission) or turn your wheels against the curb to keep the car in place (although that’s not a bad idea anyway)
- The brake lever/pedal feels loose or doesn’t provide much resistance when engaged
How to Fix:
First, check if your brake just needs a simple adjustment. For manual systems, you might be able to tighten the parking brake cable yourself. It’s often as simple as turning an adjustment nut (check your owner’s manual or a service manual).
For electronic systems, there might be a recalibration procedure such as holding the switch in the “engage” position for 30 seconds, and then in the “disengage” position for another 30 seconds. But don’t guess. Make sure you consult a model-specific service manual or do some online research.
If adjustment doesn’t help, you could be looking at worn brake pads/shoes, a stretched cable, or in electronic systems, a faulty actuator. These usually require professional attention.
Cost:
If it’s just an adjustment, you might get away with a $50-$100 service fee. For more serious issues, you could be looking at $200-$500, depending on the underlying cause and your vehicle type.
3) Broken or Frayed Parking Brake Cable (Manual)
You know that satisfying click-click-click when you pull up the parking brake? Well, it’s all thanks to a hardworking cable. But like a worn-out rubber band, these cables can stretch, fray, or snap over time
Symptoms:
- Parking brake lever pulls up way too easily
- You can yank that lever all the way up and the car still rolls
- The brake releases but doesn’t want to engage again
How to Fix:
Unless you’re a seasoned DIY mechanic, this is a job best left to the pros. Replacing a parking brake cable often involves getting under the car and fiddling with some hard-to-reach spots.
Cost:
Parts aren’t too bad – usually $50-$100. But labor can add another $100-$200 to the bill. All in, you’re probably looking at $150-$300 to get your e-brake working again.
4) Electronic Parking Brake Malfunction (Electronic)
In modern vehicles, electronic parking brakes have become increasingly common. While these systems offer convenience and integration with other vehicle functions, they are not immune to malfunctions. When electronic parking brakes fail, the issue often comes from sensor problems or control module errors.
Symptoms:
- Parking brake warning light stays on
- Brake won’t engage or disengage
- You hear the motor running but nothing happens
- Your car’s infotainment system throws a tantrum (aka error messages)
How to Fix:
First things first… check your owner’s manual for any reset procedures. Sometimes it’s as simple as holding the button down for 30 seconds. If that doesn’t work, you might need to hook up a diagnostic tool to see what’s really going on.
Cost:
This is a big… IT DEPENDS. Sometimes a simply reset of the system is all that it takes and it’s free. A sensor replacement might set you back $100-$200. But if you need a new control module? Brace yourself for a $500-$1000 bill.
5) Rust and Corrosion (Both types)
Rust: the silent killer of all things metal, including your trusty parking brake. This sneaky issue can affect both manual and electronic systems, potentially compromising their functionality and reliability. Vehicles in coastal areas or parts of the country where road salt is used in winter will be most susceptible.
Symptoms:
- Parking brake feels sticky or grinds when you use it
- Brake gets stuck in the engaged or disengaged position
- Visible rust on exposed brake components
- Grinding or scraping noise when engaging the brake
How to Fix:
If you catch it early, you might be able to save yourself a hefty repair bill. Try working the brake back and forth to break up light rust. For manual systems, a bit of penetrating oil on the cable can work wonders. Just don’t get any on the brake pads or shoes.
Cost:
DIY rust removal? Maybe $20 for supplies. If it’s gone too far and needs replacement of components, you could be looking at $200-$500, depending vehicle model and specific parts affected.
6) Warning Light Issues (Both types)
Modern vehicles, regardless of whether they’re equipped with manual or electronic parking brake systems, often feature warning lights on the dashboard to indicate parking brake status or potential issues. These warning lights serve as indicators of system functionality and can signal problems in either type of parking brake mechanism.
Depending on the vehicle manufacturer, these warning lights may include a “P”, “!”, “EPB”, “Service Parking Brake”, or other message.
Symptoms:
- Parking brake warning light stays on even when the brake isn’t engaged
- Light flashes intermittently
- Light doesn’t illuminate when the parking brake is engaged
- Light comes on while driving
How to Fix:
For both types of systems, start by checking if the parking brake is fully disengaged. In manual systems, make sure that the lever or pedal is completely released. For electronic systems, try engaging and disengaging the brake a few times.
If the light persists:
- For manual systems – Check the condition of the parking brake cable and ensure it’s properly adjusted. Look for any visible damage or excessive slack.
- For electronic systems – Try completing the parking brake reset procedure or disconnecting the car battery for a few minutes.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the problem may lie with the brake switch, wiring, or in electronic systems, the control module. At this point, it’s best to use a diagnostic scanner to read any error codes or make an appointment to take your vehicle in for service.
Cost:
Costs can vary widely depending on the cause. See the specific problems above for cost examples.
Parking Brake FAQs
Q: Is it safe to drive with a malfunctioning parking brake?
While your primary braking system will still function, driving with a faulty parking brake is not recommended and may actually be illegal in some jurisdictions. A non-functioning parking brake compromises vehicle safety, particularly when parking on inclines.
Q: How often should the parking brake be used?
It’s advisable to use your parking brake every time you park your vehicle. Regular use helps maintain system components and prevents issues like rust or seized mechanisms. It also provides an additional safety measure beyond simply placing the transmission in “Park.”
Q: Is the parking brake necessary for vehicles with automatic transmissions?
Yes. While automatic transmissions have a “Park” setting, this only locks the transmission. The parking brake provides an additional layer of security, reducing stress on the transmission and ensuring the vehicle remains stationary, especially on inclines.
Q: Can the parking brake be used in emergencies if the primary brakes fail?
The parking brake can serve as a backup in emergencies, but it’s not designed for rapid stops at high speeds. If used in an emergency, apply steady, increasing pressure and be prepared for reduced stopping power compared to the primary brakes.
Q: How long do parking brake systems typically last?
With proper use and maintenance, parking brake systems can last the lifetime of the vehicle. However, components may require adjustment or replacement around 100,000 miles, depending on usage patterns and environmental factors.
Q: Why did my electronic parking brake make a loud creak or unsticking sound after my car sat overnight following a wash?
This sound is typically caused by moisture from the wash. Water can accumulate around brake components, leading to light surface rust or causing brake pads to slightly stick to the rotors. When first disengaged, this can produce a creaking or unsticking noise.
It’s usually harmless and goes away almost immediately. However, if the noise persists or affects brake performance, have it checked by a professional. If the noise bothers you, briefly engage and disengage the parking brake right after washing and before leaving the car parked.
- Car Making a Humming Noise While Driving? (7 Causes and Cost to Fix) - December 10, 2024
- 7 Reasons Your Steering Wheel Shakes (at Low and High Speeds) - December 9, 2024
- 7 Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner (And Replacement Cost) - December 4, 2024