The emergency brake, also known as the handbrake or parking brake, is an essential component of your vehicle’s braking system. It is designed to keep your car stationary when parked and act as an extra layer of safety in case your main brakes fail. However, if you recently had a brake job done on your car and find that your emergency brake is not working correctly, it could be a cause for concern. In this article, we will explore some of the common reasons why your emergency brake may not be working after a brake job.
Reasons why your emergency brake may not be working after a brake job
Loose or damaged cables
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning emergency brake is loose or damaged cables. During a brake job, the brake cables may have been disturbed, causing them to become loose or damaged. When this happens, the emergency brake may not engage or disengage correctly, affecting the overall performance of the brake system.
Incorrect brake adjustment
Another reason why your emergency brake may not be working correctly after a brake job is that the brake adjustment may be incorrect. The emergency brake relies on the correct tension in the brake cable to function correctly. If the adjustment is too loose or too tight, it can affect the overall performance of the brake system.
Faulty brake calipers
The brake calipers are responsible for squeezing the brake pads against the rotor, which slows down or stops the vehicle. If the brake calipers are faulty or not working correctly, it can affect the overall performance of the brake system, including the emergency brake.
Broken or worn-out brake shoes
The emergency brake uses brake shoes to hold the vehicle in place when parked. If these shoes are worn out or broken, they may not engage correctly, causing the emergency brake to fail.
Incorrect installation
During a brake job, it is essential to ensure that all the components are installed correctly, including the emergency brake system. If any parts are installed incorrectly, it can affect the overall performance of the brake system, including the emergency brake.
What to do if your emergency brake is not working correctly after a brake job?
If you find that your emergency brake is not working correctly after a brake job, it is essential to take action immediately. The first step is to contact your mechanic or brake specialist and explain the issue. They may ask you to bring the vehicle in for an inspection to determine the cause of the problem.
Once the issue has been identified, the mechanic will need to repair or replace any faulty components. This may involve adjusting the brake cables, replacing the brake shoes, or repairing or replacing the brake calipers.
What happens when the emergency brake doesn’t work?
When the emergency brake doesn’t work, it can be a serious safety concern. The emergency brake is designed to keep your car stationary when parked and act as an extra layer of safety in case your main brakes fail. If the emergency brake fails, it can cause the vehicle to roll or move unexpectedly, leading to potential accidents or damage to the vehicle.
Additionally, driving without a properly functioning emergency brake can result in fines or penalties if caught by law enforcement. It is essential to address any issues with the emergency brake immediately to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.
In conclusion, a malfunctioning emergency brake can be a serious safety concern. If you have recently had a brake job done on your vehicle and find that your emergency brake is not working correctly, it is essential to take action immediately. By understanding the common reasons why your emergency brake may not be working after a brake job and seeking the help of a qualified mechanic, you can ensure that your vehicle is safe and roadworthy.
