Handbrake Stuck? Find Out Why and How to Fix It!

Have you ever had a problem with your car’s handbrake suddenly getting stuck? If so, you’re not alone. A stuck handbrake can be an annoying problem and even potentially threaten your safety on the road.

The handbrake is an important part of a vehicle’s braking system that allows you to lock the rear wheels when parking or stopping on a slope. However, just like any other part of the vehicle, the handbrake is also prone to technical issues.

In this article TransTRACK , we will discuss the common causes of a stuck car handbrake, its impact on vehicle performance, and most importantly, the steps you can take to prevent and resolve the issue. By understanding more about handbrake care and maintenance, you can improve your driving safety and extend the life of your vehicle’s braking system. Let’s get started!

Causes of a Jammed Handbrake

Here are each of the causes of the handbrake that can cause it to jam:

Pulling the handbrake too hard

When you pull the handbrake too hard, the pressure applied to the components in the brake system can become excessive. This can lead to excessive wear on certain parts, such as the cable, lever or plunger mechanism. If these components are too strained or stiff, it can make the handbrake difficult to release or even jam completely.

Using the handbrake for too long in standing water

Water can be an enemy to the brake system. If your handbrake is constantly exposed to water or used in waterlogged conditions, it can cause corrosion of the metal parts in the brake system. This corrosion can result in rust buildup and erosion which in turn hinders the movement of the components, causing the brakes to jam.

Handbrake cables or components wear out

Every part of the brake system, including cables, moving parts, and other components, is subject to wear over time. Excessive use, harsh environmental conditions, or lack of maintenance can lead to wear of these parts. Worn cables or damaged components can impede the movement and function of the handbrake, causing it to jam.

It is important to regularly perform maintenance on the handbrake system, including regular checks, lubrication, and replacement of worn or damaged components. By performing proper maintenance, you can extend the life of the brake system and avoid problems such as a stuck handbrake.

How to Fix a Stuck Handbrake

How to fix a stuck handbrake can involve the following steps:

Pulling the handbrake slowly

Pulling the handbrake slowly allows the pressure applied to the components in the brake system to be more evenly distributed. This helps prevent excessive wear on certain parts that could cause the brakes to jam. If you feel any unusual resistance when pulling the handbrake, stop and check if there is a problem that needs to be fixed.

Avoid overloading

Overloading a vehicle can cause extra stress on the brake system. This can make the components in the system work beyond their normal capacity, which can eventually lead to wear and tear and brake failure. Be sure to adhere to the maximum recommended weight limit for your vehicle and avoid transporting loads beyond its capacity.

Using special handbrake lubricants

Special lubricants for handbrake systems help maintain smooth movement between the components in the system. It reduces friction and ensures that the handbrake functions properly. Be sure to use the lubricant recommended by your vehicle manufacturer and apply it regularly according to the set maintenance schedule.

Routine inspection

Regular checks are key to preventing problems with the handbrake system. Check the condition of the cable, lever, and other components regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. Look out for signs of wear or damage, such as worn cables or levers that have stiffened. By detecting problems quickly, you can make the necessary repairs or replacements before the problem becomes more serious.

By following these steps regularly, you can help prevent your handbrake from becoming stuck and ensure that your vehicle’s brake system is functioning properly and safely.

In keeping your car’s handbrake performance optimized, preventive measures and regular maintenance are essential. Using the handbrake carefully, avoiding overloading, using the right lubricant, and performing regular checks are all measures that can help prevent the handbrake from becoming stuck.

However, under certain circumstances, even with good prevention efforts, problems with the handbrake may occur. To ensure that your vehicle is always in the best condition, TransTRACK offers solutions that can help you with vehicle maintenance, including the brake system.

By using TransTRACK’s  Vehicle Maintenance System, you can easily keep track of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, including regular checks and maintenance for the handbrake system. The system provides automatic reminders for necessary maintenance, so you won’t miss out on important schedules.

Thus, you can maintain the safety and optimal performance of your vehicle, while reducing the risk of problems with the handbrake system. Be the first to take proactive steps in your vehicle maintenance by using TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System today!