Description
What is the Handbrake Release Cable all about?
Your handbrake only plays a role in safety after parking your car, but it’s an important part of automotive equipment. When you engage the brake, either by pulling the handle between the two front seats or pressing the pedal on the driver side, it engages a secondary braking system designed to help hold your car in place and alleviate unwanted pressure on your transmission.
You need to release the brake before you can safely drive once more, and this is where the handbrake release cable comes into play. Depending on the setup in your specific vehicle, you’ll either push a release button, or push the pedal again to activate the release cable and disengage the handbrake. Without an operational brake cable, the e-brake won’t disengage, which can be problematic. Driving with the brake on is never a good idea.
Keep in mind:
- Your handbrake release cable should be inspected during normal maintenance.
- The release cable generally runs the length of your vehicle under the body.
- Release cable hardware can also cause problems.
How it’s done:
- The dash panels are removed for access
- The defective handbrake release cable is removed
- The new handbrake release cable is installed
- The dash panels are reinstalled
- The vehicle handbrake is checked for proper operation
Our recommendation:
If your handbrake release cable is not working and the brake is engaged, do not drive the vehicle. That will only damage the braking system and increase your repair bill. One of our experienced mechanics will often be able to fix the problem in short order.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Handbrake Release Cable?
- Handbrake won’t disengage
How important is this service?
Having a working handbrake release cable is important. Without one, you won’t be able to use your handbrake (or disengage the brake if it’s on). We recommend you work with our expert mechanics who can diagnose the problem.
