15th Street Automotive provides Parking Brake Adjustment services to Puyallup, Graham, Sumner, WA, and surrounding areas

Parking Brake Purpose & Function

The parking brake, also known as the handbrake or emergency brake, is a secondary braking system in vehicles. It is engaged to hold the vehicle stationary when parked, especially on inclines, and as a backup in case the primary brakes fail. The parking brake is typically operated by a lever or pedal and applies force to the rear wheels of the vehicle.

There are two types of parking brakes: mechanical and electrical. Mechanical parking brakes use cables to transmit force from the lever or pedal to the rear brake drums or discs. When the lever or pedal is engaged, the cables tighten, applying the brakes. Electronic parking brakes (EPBs), on the other hand, are digitally actuated by either a button or the vehicle dashboard. They use motors to apply force to the rear wheels electronically. In some modern vehicles, the electronic parking brake will automatically release when the vehicle is put into drive and reverse or engage the brake when the transmission is shifted into park.

The parking brake is an important safety feature that provides additional security when parking and can also be used in certain driving situations, such as emergency stops or preventing rollback on hills. It's important to use the parking brake whenever parking, even on level ground, to reduce stress on the transmission and ensure the vehicle remains stationary.

Signs that the Parking Brake Requires Readjustment

In time, a parking brake may require readjustment. This can happen when the cables that connect the parking brake lever or pedal to the braking mechanism stretch. Another reason is because the brake pads or shoes wear down, so the cables need to be adjusted to compensate for the reduced braking power. Environmental factors such as dirt, debris, or corrosion can also affect the components of the parking brake system, leading to misalignment or decreased performance.

Signs that you may need to readjust the parking brake include:

• The brake does not hold the vehicle securely when engaged.
• The brake lever or pedal feels loose or travels farther than usual when engaged.
• There is a burning smell or unusual noise when the brake is engaged.
• The brake warning light on the dashboard is illuminated.

Suspect you have an issue with the parking brake? At 15th Street Automotive, we provide parking brake readjustment services in Puyallup. You can count on our team for complete brake service, restoring your vehicle's ability to stop.

Areas Served : Puyallup | Graham | Sumner, WA | and surrounding areas