Parking Brake System Adjustment Costs
Below are the typical costs for various parking brake system adjustments. Labor rates are calculated at $125/hour.
Basic Parking Brake Cable AdjustmentA simple cable adjustment typically takes 0.5-1 hour to complete.
- Labor Cost: $62.50-$125
- Parts: Usually no parts required
- Total Cost: $62.50-$125
Adjusting parking brake shoes requires more detailed work and typically takes 1-1.5 hours.
- Labor Cost: $125-$187.50
- Parts: Minor hardware if needed ($10-$20)
- Total Cost: $135-$207.50
Full system adjustment including cables, shoes, and equalizer inspection takes 1.5-2 hours.
- Labor Cost: $187.50-$250
- Parts: Various hardware if needed ($20-$40)
- Total Cost: $207.50-$290
Note: These are estimated costs. Actual pricing may vary depending on vehicle make/model and condition of the parking brake system. Additional repairs may be necessary if components are found to be damaged or worn.
Parking Brake System Adjustment Procedures
Cable-Operated Drum Brake System
Tools needed:Basic hand tools, brake spoon, adjustment tool
Steps:
- Safely lift and support vehicle with jack stands
- Remove rear wheels
- Release parking brake fully
- Locate adjustment mechanism at brake backing plate
- Turn star wheel adjuster until slight drag is felt on drum
- Back off adjustment slightly until drum rotates freely
- Adjust cable tension at equalizer
- Test parking brake engagement (should fully engage within 4-6 clicks)
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
Tools needed:Diagnostic scan tool, manufacturer-specific software
Steps:
- Connect diagnostic scan tool to vehicle
- Access EPB control module
- Initialize service mode
- Follow manufacturer-specific calibration procedure
- Verify proper operation through multiple engagement cycles
- Clear any diagnostic trouble codes
- Exit service mode
Caliper-Integrated Parking Brake
Tools needed:Basic hand tools, caliper tool kit
Steps:
- Ensure vehicle is safely supported
- Remove rear wheels
- Locate adjustment mechanism on caliper
- Reset pistons to home position
- Adjust internal mechanism per manufacturer specifications
- Check cable tension if applicable
- Verify proper clearance between pads and rotor
- Test parking brake operation
Important Notes:
- Always refer to manufacturer-specific procedures and specifications
- Proper adjustment is critical for safety
- Some systems may require special tools or equipment
- If unsure, consult a professional technician
Warning: Improper parking brake adjustment can lead to brake failure or unintended vehicle movement. If you're uncertain about performing these procedures, please consult a certified technician.
Understanding Parking Brake System Adjustments
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Common Failure Symptoms of Parking Brake System Adjustment Issues
Parking Brake System Adjustment Guide
Cable-Operated Parking Brake
Signs of Failure:
- Parking brake lever pulls up too high (more than 8-10 clicks)
- Vehicle rolls while parked on inclines
- Squeaking or grinding noise when engaging brake
- Brake feels loose or spongy
Service Schedule: Inspect every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually. Adjust cables if necessary.
Drum-in-Hat Parking Brake
Signs of Failure:
- Reduced holding power on hills
- Unusual noise when engaging or disengaging
- Seized or stuck mechanism
- Rust or corrosion visible on components
Service Schedule: Inspect during regular brake service (typically every 30,000 miles). Clean and adjust mechanism as needed.
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
Signs of Failure:
- Warning light on dashboard
- Delayed engagement or release
- System fails to engage automatically
- Unusual motor noise during operation
Service Schedule: Electronic system diagnostic check every 30,000 miles. No regular adjustment needed, but repair/replacement if system fails.
Caliper-Integrated Parking Brake
Signs of Failure:
- Brake drag when released
- Insufficient holding power
- Uneven brake pad wear
- Clicking or rattling sounds
Service Schedule: Inspect during regular brake service (every 30,000-50,000 miles). Adjust or repair as part of caliper maintenance.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and procedures.
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.
