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Handbrake Adjustment
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 2 - 24 hours depending on mechanic availability
What is handbrake adjustment?
Over time, the handbrake cables will stretch and the handbrake shoes / brake shoes will wear. Adjustment is then required to maintain correct operation of the parking brake
How does the handbrake adjustment work and what are the components?
When the lever mechanism is engaged, the cable will pull on a lever to clamp the brake shoes or rear brake pads to the braking surface and lock the wheels thus preventing them from rotating.
Therefore when there is slack in the system, the handbrake lever may travel upwards too high before it is able to be locked in place. When this occurs, the slack needs to be taken up, initially by shortening the cable using the threaded end and winding the retaining nut to tighten it.
The handbrake or rear brake shoes may also need to be adjusted as well. This is either done with the brake drums removed, or in most cases there is either an inspection hole or a ratchet mechanism with which to do this.
If your vehicle has an electric handbrake, the process is usually done automatically, however the system may need calibrating to make an adjustment.
How do you know when the handbrake cable needs adjusting?
- When the vehicle still moves despite having engaged the handbrake.
- If you have a manually applied handbrake and the lever starts to come up too high - anything over 5 notches on the ratchet is too high!.
- If you have an electric handbrake and there is a handbrake warning message on the dashboard.
What happens during a handbrake adjustment?
Handbrake adjustment is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Inspect the brake system.
- Establish whether it requires adjustment from one end or both.
- Adjust the handbrake cable..
- Inspect the brake system again and will, if deemed safe, test the car.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your handbrake to be adjusted will cover;
- Coming to you
- Adjustment of the handbrake mechanism
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Parking brake freeplay check & adjust
Associated repairs
Handbrake centre/main cable replacement
Parking brake cables replacement - (both) equal length
Handbrake cable replacement (driver side)
Handbrake cable replacement (passenger side)
Parking brake pads/shoes replacement (all)
How much does it cost to have a handbrake adjusted?
The cost of a handbrake adjustment depends on your car and your location.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the handbrake doesn’t require adjusting and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.