How To Get A Stuck Emergency Brake To Release

Having a stuck emergency brake can be frustrating and can prevent you from moving your vehicle. Whether you’re dealing with a frozen cable or the brake is simply jammed, it’s important to know how to release it safely and effectively. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of getting a stuck emergency brake to release, so you can get back on the road in no time.

Contents:

1. Understanding the Emergency Brake

2. Identifying the Issue

3. Precautions to Take

4. Method 1: Coasting

5. Method 2: Tapping the Brakes

6. Method 3: Using a Rubber Mallet

7. Method 4: Lever Release

8. Method 5: Dismantling the Brake

9. Preventing Future Issues

10. Conclusion

1. Understanding the Emergency Brake

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s important to understand how the emergency brake system works. The emergency brake, also known as the parking brake or handbrake, is a secondary braking mechanism in your vehicle. It is primarily used to keep your vehicle from moving when parked, especially on hills or inclines. Unlike the regular brake system, which relies on hydraulic pressure, the emergency brake uses cable or linkage to engage the brakes mechanically.

When you pull up on the emergency brake lever or engage the pedal, it activates a series of cables or linkage that apply pressure to the rear brakes. This pressure prevents the wheels from rotating, effectively keeping your vehicle in place. However, if the emergency brake becomes stuck, releasing it can be a challenge.

2. Identifying the Issue

Before attempting to release the stuck emergency brake, it’s important to identify the underlying cause. There are a few common issues that can cause the emergency brake to become stuck:

• Frozen cables: If you live in a cold climate or have recently driven through icy conditions, it’s possible for the emergency brake cables to freeze, preventing them from releasing smoothly.
• Jammed mechanism: Over time, dirt, debris, or rust can build up in the emergency brake mechanism, causing it to jam and preventing it from releasing.
• Worn or stretched cables: If the cables that control the emergency brake are worn or stretched, they may not be able to disengage the brakes properly.

By identifying the specific issue, you can choose the most appropriate method for releasing the stuck emergency brake.

3. Precautions to Take

Before attempting any of the methods discussed in this article, it’s important to take some safety precautions:

• Make sure your vehicle is in park with the engine turned off.
• Engage the regular foot brake before attempting to release the emergency brake.
• Always work on a flat, level surface to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

By following these precautions, you can safeguard yourself and prevent further damage to your vehicle.

4. Method 1: Coasting

If the emergency brake isn’t fully engaged and you’re dealing with a frozen cable or a minor jam, the first method you can try is coasting. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start your vehicle and make sure it’s in drive or first gear, depending on whether you have an automatic or manual transmission.
2. Gently release the regular foot brake and allow your vehicle to move forward slowly.
3. After a few feet, apply the foot brake to bring your vehicle to a stop.
4. While holding down the foot brake, try releasing the emergency brake. Apply and release it several times to lubricate the mechanism and help it disengage.
5. If the emergency brake doesn’t release, repeat the process a few more times, gradually increasing the distance you coast before applying the foot brake.

This method works best if the emergency brake is only partially engaged. If the brake is fully engaged or jammed, you may need to try other methods.

5. Method 2: Tapping the Brakes

If coasting doesn’t work, you can try tapping the brakes to release the stuck emergency brake. This method can help dislodge any debris or rust that might be causing the brake to jam.

1. Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the regular foot brake.
2. Locate a clear, open area where you can safely accelerate your vehicle without any obstacles or traffic.
3. With your foot on the regular foot brake pedal, gently accelerate your vehicle to about 20-30 mph.
4. Suddenly and firmly tap the foot brake pedal several times, applying enough pressure to engage the brake system fully.
5. Release the foot brake and check if the emergency brake has disengaged.

Repeat this process a few times if necessary. If the emergency brake doesn’t release, it’s time to try another method.

6. Method 3: Using a Rubber Mallet

If the above methods fail, using a rubber mallet can help release a stubborn emergency brake. This method is especially useful for dealing with rusty or stuck brake mechanisms.

1. Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the regular foot brake.
2. Locate the rear wheels and remove the wheel cover or hubcap, if necessary, to access the brake assembly.
3. With a rubber mallet or a block of wood, gently tap the brake drum or rotor around the edges. The goal is to dislodge any rust or debris that may be causing the emergency brake to stick.
4. After tapping, try releasing the emergency brake by pulling up on the lever or pressing the pedal.
5. If the emergency brake doesn’t release, repeat the tapping process a few more times, ensuring you tap all around the brake drum or rotor.

Using a rubber mallet can be effective, but remember to use gentle taps to avoid causing any damage to the braking system.

7. Method 4: Lever Release

If you have an emergency brake lever that you pull up on or push down to engage, you can try manually releasing it using a lever release. Note that not all vehicles have this type of emergency brake mechanism.

1. Locate the emergency brake lever in your vehicle, typically between the driver’s seat and the front passenger seat.
2. Using a small screwdriver or a similar tool, locate the release mechanism or tab near the base of the lever.
3. Depress the release mechanism or tab while simultaneously pulling up on the lever.
4. If the emergency brake doesn’t release, repeat the process a few more times, ensuring you depress the release mechanism fully.

If the lever release doesn’t work, you may need to try another method or consult a professional mechanic.

8. Method 5: Dismantling the Brake

If all else fails, you can attempt to dismantle the stuck emergency brake mechanism to release it manually. However, this method is complex and should only be attempted if you have experience with automobile repairs.

1. Open your vehicle’s manual to locate the emergency brake mechanism and understand its components.
2. Disconnect the negative terminal of your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical mishaps.
3. Using appropriate tools, carefully disassemble the emergency brake mechanism, following the steps outlined in the vehicle manual.
4. Once you have access to the jammed or stuck components, gently release or adjust them to disengage the emergency brake.
5. Reassemble the emergency brake mechanism carefully, ensuring all components are in their proper places.

It’s recommended to seek professional help or consult a mechanic if you’re uncomfortable with dismantling the emergency brake yourself.

9. Preventing Future Issues

Dealing with a stuck emergency brake can be a hassle, but there are measures you can take to prevent it from happening again in the future:

• Regular maintenance: Ensure your vehicle undergoes regular maintenance, including periodic checks of the emergency brake system.
• Lubricate the mechanism: Apply a quality silicone-based lubricant to the emergency brake cables and linkage to keep them moving freely.
• Store in a dry place: If you live in a cold climate, park your vehicle in a dry, heated garage to prevent the emergency brake cables from freezing.
• Inspect for damage: Routinely inspect the emergency brake mechanism for signs of wear, damage, or loose components. Address any issues immediately to prevent them from escalating.

By following these preventive measures, you can minimize the chances of encountering a stuck emergency brake.

10. Conclusion

A stuck emergency brake can be a frustrating problem, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can release it and get back on the road quickly. Remember to identify the issue, take necessary precautions, and try the appropriate methods discussed in this article. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. By following preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of future stuck emergency brake incidents in your vehicle.

FAQs

Q1. Can I drive with a stuck emergency brake?

No, it is not safe to drive with a stuck emergency brake. The emergency brake can cause excessive wear on the rear brake pads, leading to decreased braking performance and potentially causing damage to other components of the braking system. Additionally, driving with a stuck emergency brake can impede your vehicle’s ability to accelerate properly and potentially cause accidents or damage. It’s important to resolve the issue before driving the vehicle.

Q2. How much does it cost to fix a stuck emergency brake?

The cost of fixing a stuck emergency brake can vary depending on the underlying cause and the extent of the damage. If it’s a minor issue like frozen cables, lubrication, or adjustment, you may be able to fix it yourself with minimal costs. However, if the problem is more severe or requires professional assistance, such as replacing damaged components or the entire emergency brake assembly, the cost can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the vehicle make and model. It’s always a good idea to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

Q3. Is it normal for the emergency brake to feel stiff?

A slight resistance or stiffness in the emergency brake lever or pedal is normal, especially when engaging or releasing the brake. However, if you notice a sudden change in the feel or resistance of the emergency brake, such as it becoming excessively stiff or loose, it could indicate an issue with the brake mechanism. In such cases, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent any potential problems or failures.