Where is the adjustment for the parking brake located?
The adjustment location depends on your vehicle’s braking system. If you have a traditional cable‑operated parking brake, the adjustment is typically at the rear brakes or near the lever. If your car uses a hydraulic or electronic parking brake, there is usually no user‑adjustable screw and any adjustment is handled by the vehicle’s control system or a dealer service procedure.
This article explains the different setups, where to look for adjustment access, and how to proceed safely when servicing the parking brake.
Manual cable-operated parking brake (rear drums)
In cars with a conventional handbrake linked to rear drum brakes, the adjustment is usually located inside the rear brake area. Access may require removing the drum or slipping a service cover to reach a star wheel or adjuster on the backing plate.
What you’ll typically find and how to adjust it:
- Safely lift and support the vehicle, then remove the rear wheel to expose the brake drum or backing plate.
- Look for a small star wheel or adjusting nut on the backing plate behind the drum or through a service access hole.
- Insert a brake adjuster tool or a suitable flat tool and turn the star wheel to tighten the shoes. Clockwise usually tightens the brakes; reverse to loosen.
- With the drum reinstalled, pull the parking brake lever several times and check the engagement feel. A typical setup requires a firm hold within several clicks, without dragging when released.
- Lower the vehicle and test the brake by parking on a gentle slope to confirm it holds securely. Re-adjust if necessary.
In summary, manual drum‑type parking brake adjustments are typically performed behind the rear drums and require the wheel removal to access the star wheel or adjuster.
Electronic or hydraulic parking brake (EPB/HPB)
Many newer vehicles use an electronic parking brake or a hydraulic system with electronic control. These systems do not provide a user-accessible screw or lever for adjustment. If performance drifts, the fix is usually software calibration or a dealer/service procedure rather than a manual adjustment.
Where the adjustment is managed and how to address issues:
- In EPB/HPB setups, the caliper motors or the hydraulic module handle engagement and adjustments. The physical components are typically mounted near the rear wheels, with wiring or a module routed to the vehicle’s computer.
- If the parking brake isn’t holding or feels loose, the adjustment is performed via diagnostic tooling or a re-learn/calibration procedure performed by a technician. Do not attempt to create manual clearance with a wrench.
- Some models incorporate a self‑adjustment feature or require a short drive with the parking brake engaged during a service procedure; others require a formal calibration in-shop using a scan tool.
In short, EPB/HBP systems have no user‑adjustment knob. When issues arise, consult the owner’s manual or a qualified technician to perform the appropriate software calibration or service procedure.
How to identify which system your vehicle has
Determining the type of parking brake you have will guide your next steps. Look for these indicators:
- A traditional handbrake lever between the front seats or a foot pedal in the far left footwell usually signals a cable‑operated system.
- A button or switch labeled “EPB” or signs of an electronic control near the center console suggests an electronic parking brake.
- Rear brakes that look like standard discs without a visible handbrake cable may indicate a rear drum or an integrated parking brake mechanism, which can be either cable or electronic depending on the design.
- Consult the owner’s manual or service manual for your exact model/year to confirm the system type and the approved service procedure.
Clear identification helps ensure you approach maintenance safely and correctly, avoiding unnecessary disassembly or improper adjustments.
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