What to know
- While it is possible to adjust the parking brake in some vehicles, it is recommended to have it done by a qualified mechanic to ensure proper functionality.
- The parking brake is used to keep the vehicle stationary when parked, while the emergency brake is used to slow down or stop the vehicle in an emergency situation.
- In many jurisdictions, driving with a faulty parking brake is illegal and can result in fines or penalties.
Ensuring the proper functionality of your vehicle’s parking brake is crucial for safety and passing vehicle inspections. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to test your parking brake effectively:
Safety Precautions
Before starting the test, ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Materials Required
- Vehicle
- Parking brake lever
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Inclined surface (optional)
Step 1: Visual Inspection
- Inspect the parking brake cable and lever for any signs of damage or wear.
- Check the parking brake pads for thickness and any uneven wear patterns.
Step 2: Lever Engagement Test
- Engage the parking brake fully by pulling the lever up to its highest point.
- Ensure the lever engages smoothly and firmly, without excessive resistance or play.
Step 3: Holding Power Test
- Find a slight incline (approximately 10-15 degrees) or park on a flat surface.
- Release the foot brake and observe if the vehicle rolls.
- If the vehicle rolls more than 12 inches (30 cm), the holding power of the parking brake may be insufficient.
Step 4: Measurement Test
- Measure the distance between the front and rear tires.
- Engage the parking brake fully.
- Measure the distance again.
- The difference in measurements should be at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) on each side.
Step 5: Inclined Surface Test (Optional)
- Park the vehicle on an incline with the front wheels facing downhill.
- Engage the parking brake fully.
- Release the foot brake and observe if the vehicle rolls.
- If the vehicle rolls more than 2 inches (5 cm), the parking brake may not be holding the vehicle securely.
Step 6: Repeat Tests
- Repeat the above tests several times to ensure consistency and accuracy.
- If the parking brake fails any of the tests, further inspection and repairs may be necessary.
Inspection Results
- If the parking brake passes all the tests, it is considered to be in good working order.
- If the parking brake fails any of the tests, it should be inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
Final Thoughts: Passing the Parking Brake Inspection
By following these steps, you can effectively test your parking brake for inspection and ensure that it meets the required safety standards. Remember to have your parking brake inspected regularly by a mechanic to maintain its optimal functionality.
Top Questions Asked
Q: How often should I test my parking brake?
A: It is recommended to test your parking brake every six months or 10,000 miles.
Q: What are the common reasons for parking brake failure?
A: Worn brake pads, stretched cables, or faulty calipers can lead to parking brake failure.
Q: Can I adjust the parking brake myself?
A: While it is possible to adjust the parking brake in some vehicles, it is recommended to have it done by a qualified mechanic to ensure proper functionality.
Q: What is the difference between a parking brake and an emergency brake?
A: The parking brake is used to keep the vehicle stationary when parked, while the emergency brake is used to slow down or stop the vehicle in an emergency situation.
Q: Is it illegal to drive with a faulty parking brake?
A: In many jurisdictions, driving with a faulty parking brake is illegal and can result in fines or penalties.
