What are the reasons for the car's handbrake not holding?
4 Answers
There are several reasons why a car's handbrake may not hold, including brake fluid leakage and worn brake discs. The specific reasons are as follows: Brake fluid leakage: It is necessary to check the brake fluid. Leakage or insufficient brake fluid can cause the handbrake to not hold. The braking system mainly consists of several parts: the energy supply device, control device, transmission device, and brake. The main functions of the braking system are to slow down or even stop a moving car, maintain a stable speed for a car going downhill, and keep a parked car stationary. Worn brake discs: Accompanied by body shaking or abnormal noises when braking, this is due to the brake discs becoming thin or foreign objects entering the brake pads. Uneven surfaces on the brake discs can cause sharp metal friction sounds when braking, as well as insufficient braking force, longer braking distances, and softer braking.
A couple of days ago, I parked my car on a slope, pulled the handbrake a few notches, but the car still rolled, which was quite nerve-wracking. At the repair shop, they found out that the handbrake cable was loose, severely worn, and even rusted and stuck. The mechanic said that in places where you drive a lot or use the handbrake frequently, the cable can easily stretch and deform; if the rear brake pads are worn to the limit, there's not enough friction; improper adjustment, like loose screws, can also cause failure. I also heard that if water from washing the car or snow and ice in winter seep into the rear wheels, causing oil and dirt buildup, the handbrake won't have enough strength. That time, I spent about a hundred bucks to replace the cable and had the brake system checked at the same time—now it's rock solid. I suggest everyone not wait until the handbrake completely fails before dealing with it. If you feel the pulling force weakening, go to a professional shop for inspection and repair, especially for older cars—regular maintenance gives more peace of mind.
After years of car enthusiasm, I've encountered several common reasons for a parking brake failure: First, check if the handbrake cable is loose or damaged. Over time, the cable can stretch, or moisture can cause rust, leading to slippage when engaged. Second, insufficient friction due to worn rear brake pads or uneven wear can prevent proper locking. Third, improper adjustment—like incorrect tension in the handbrake lever—can be an issue. Test by pulling the lever: it should click 4-6 times; fewer or more clicks indicate a problem. To adjust, simply turn the adjustment nut near the wheels, but avoid overtightening to prevent difficulty releasing. Another possibility is obstruction by debris like dirt or grease. It's advisable to check the handbrake tension every six months and address issues early to prevent escalation. DIY adjustment is possible, but if inexperienced, consult a reliable mechanic for safety.
A failing handbrake is extremely dangerous, as it can easily cause the car to roll on slopes and lead to accidents. I've helped a friend deal with this issue. The main reasons include oil buildup or corrosion in the handbrake system reducing friction, such as rust from rainwater affecting the mechanism; excessively worn brake pads failing to hold the wheels; or the cable getting stuck and losing flexibility. During inspections, most cases are found to be caused by aging or improper maintenance. If you feel any looseness, drive to a shop immediately for a full system check—don't take safety lightly. It's recommended to park on level ground and engage the handbrake, avoiding steep slopes that increase the load.
