Where can parking brakes be adjusted?
In most vehicles, manual parking brakes are adjustable at two points: the handbrake lever area inside the cabin and the rear wheel drum area. Modern electronic parking brakes typically do not offer user-adjustment and require service by a technician.
Understanding the systems
Parking brakes fall into two broad categories. Traditional cable-operated setups physically pull the rear brakes via a cable, while electronic parking brakes use motors and a control module. The location and method of adjustment differ depending on which system your car uses.
Manual cable-operated parking brakes
These systems rely on a mechanical cable linked to the handbrake lever or pedal. Adjustments are typically possible at the lever side and at the rear wheels.
The following are the common adjustment points for manual cable-operated parking brakes:
- Lever-side adjustment: Some vehicles have a threaded nut or adjuster near the handbrake lever (often under a center console cover). Turning this adjusts cable tension and lever travel.
- Rear-wheel drum back-plate adjustment: For drum-in-hat or rear drum systems, a star wheel on the backing plate is used to set the shoe clearance. Access is through a service hole or after wheel removal; turning the star wheel tightens or loosens the shoes to achieve proper engagement.
Concluding: If the lever feels loose or the brake does not hold, the cable may be stretched or the shoe clearance mis-set. A proper adjustment may require inspecting both points and, if needed, replacing worn cables or shoes.
Electronic parking brakes (EPB)
Electronic parking brakes replace a manual lever with an actuator inside the brake caliper or a motor at the rear wheels. There is generally no user-facing adjustment screw or nut.
The following statements describe typical EPB adjustment behavior:
- No user adjustment: For most EPB systems, there is no accessible adjustment point for the driver. If the system reports a fault or the brake does not hold, service is performed with diagnostic tools.
- Calibration during service: When pads or shoes are replaced or components are serviced, technicians calibrate or relearn the system using software tools. This ensures proper pad contact and travel limits.
- Model-specific variations: Some vehicles offer limited recalibration options via maintenance or service modes in the vehicle’s settings, but these are not universal and require manufacturer procedures.
Concluding: If an EPB-equipped car has a dragging brake, an improper hold, or warning lights, seek professional service. Do not attempt forced quick fixes at home on EPB systems.
What to do if your parking brake isn’t holding
Diagnose common causes such as cable stretch, seized components, worn shoes or pads, or a failing EPB module. Start with a visual inspection of the cable and drums (manual systems) or check for error codes with an OBD tool for EPB systems. For safety, never rely on a parking brake to hold the vehicle on an incline if it doesn’t feel secure.
Summary
Parking brake adjustments vary by system. Manual cable-operated brakes typically offer adjustment points at the lever and at rear wheel drums, while electronic parking brakes generally require dealership or qualified technician calibration rather than user-serviceable tweaks. Always consult your vehicle’s manual or a professional when in doubt, especially for EPB-equipped models.
