Emergency Brake Cable Repair Cost Guide
Emergency brake cable repairs vary in cost depending on the vehicle make, model, and the extent of the repair needed. Here's a breakdown of typical repair scenarios:
Basic Emergency Brake Cable Adjustment
Labor Time:0.5-1 hour
Cost Range:$62.50-$125
Description:Simple adjustment of existing cable tension, no parts replacement required.
Single Cable Replacement (Rear)
Labor Time:1-2 hours
Cost Range:$125-$250 + parts ($30-$75)
Total Estimated Cost:$155-$325
Description:Replacement of one rear brake cable, including removal and installation.
Complete Cable System Replacement
Labor Time:2-4 hours
Cost Range:$250-$500 + parts ($75-$200)
Total Estimated Cost:$325-$700
Description:Full replacement of main and rear cables, including all mounting hardware.
Please Note:
- Prices are based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour
- Part costs can vary significantly based on vehicle make and model
- Additional repairs may be necessary if related components are damaged
- A thorough inspection is recommended to determine exact repair needs
Contact us for a precise quote specific to your vehicle's make and model.
Emergency Brake Cable Repair Procedure
Front Emergency Brake Cable
Tools Required:Jack and jack stands, wheel chocks, socket set, pliers, brake cable tool (recommended)
Repair Steps:
- Engage parking brake and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
- Raise vehicle and secure with jack stands
- Locate the front cable connection point at the equalizer
- Release parking brake to reduce tension
- Disconnect cable from equalizer
- Remove cable retaining clips under vehicle
- Disconnect cable from mounting bracket near firewall
- Remove old cable by pulling through firewall
- Install new cable by feeding through firewall
- Secure cable to mounting brackets
- Reconnect to equalizer
- Adjust cable tension
- Test parking brake operation
Rear Emergency Brake Cable
Tools Required:Jack and jack stands, wheel chocks, socket set, pliers, brake cable tool (recommended)
Repair Steps:
- Place wheel chocks in front of front wheels
- Raise rear of vehicle and secure with jack stands
- Remove rear wheel
- Release parking brake
- Remove brake drum
- Disconnect cable from brake shoe lever
- Remove cable from backing plate
- Disconnect from equalizer under vehicle
- Remove cable retaining clips
- Remove old cable
- Install new cable and route properly
- Connect to brake shoe lever
- Secure cable to backing plate
- Reconnect to equalizer
- Reinstall brake drum and wheel
- Adjust cable tension
- Test parking brake operation
Important Notes:
Safety Warning:Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use proper jack stands.
Additional Tips:
- Inspect brake shoes and hardware while system is disassembled
- Lubricate all moving parts during reassembly
- Replace any rusty or damaged hardware
- Ensure proper routing to avoid cable binding
- Verify proper tension adjustment before returning vehicle to service
Note: Specific procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions.
Understanding Emergency Brake Cables
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Common Failure Symptoms of Emergency Brake Cables: Warning Signs to Watch For
Emergency Brake Cable Maintenance Guide
Signs of Emergency Brake Cable Failure
Loose or Spongy Brake Handle: If your emergency brake handle pulls up too easily or feels loose, this could indicate a stretched or broken cable.
Brake Warning Light: If your brake warning light stays illuminated even when the parking brake is released, this could signal a cable issue.
Parking Brake Won't Hold: If your vehicle rolls while parked on an incline with the emergency brake engaged, the cable may be stretched or broken.
Visible Damage: During inspection, look for:
- Frayed or broken cable strands
- Rust or corrosion
- Damaged protective coating
- Loose or missing hardware
Typical Service Schedule
Regular Inspection: Emergency brake cables should be inspected during every brake service or at least once a year.
Adjustment Schedule: Cables typically need adjustment every 20,000-30,000 miles, depending on usage and environmental conditions.
Replacement Timeline: Most emergency brake cables should be replaced every 60,000-80,000 miles or if any signs of wear are detected.
Environmental Factors: Vehicles in areas with harsh winters or high salt exposure may need more frequent inspections and earlier replacement due to accelerated corrosion.
Safety Note: Never ignore signs of emergency brake cable failure. A properly functioning parking brake is crucial for vehicle safety and is required by law in most jurisdictions.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
