How to tension the handbrake without going to the workshop

One of the elements we use most in the car is the handbrake. We normally only use it when we park the car and leave it. With the handbrake applied, we can be sure that the car will not move even a centimetre and we will find it where we left it. It is also known as the parking brake and, although it is being replaced by an electronic brake, it is still very common in our cars.

The handbrake or parking brake consists of a cable that runs to the rear wheels and locks them, preventing them from rolling. But, like all mechanical elements, the handbrake may need maintenance from time to time. The most common problem we can encounter with the parking brake is that it loosens and starts to lose effectiveness.

Loss of tension in the handbrake

The loss of tension in the handbrake causes it to lose efficiency. It is easy to notice, since the lever travel becomes longer each time and it is easy to notice that it moves and does not stay locked in place. But since it is a very simple mechanism, this problem is also simple to correct, even without going to the workshop.

We always recommend that you go to your trusted workshop if you detect any problem with the car, but if you are somewhat handy, you can fix the loss of tension in the handbrake yourself. To begin with, you should know that the handbrake has a nut that can be tightened to tension the cable. It is located under the car, so you just need to find it and tighten it until the cable is properly tensioned.

It is advisable to lift the car with a jack so that you can manoeuvre well and comfortably reach the parts that need to be handled. Above all, carry out the operation with the utmost safety and with every precaution so that everything goes well.

Then you need to locate the lock nut, which is situated next to the handbrake lever, and carry out the same operation on it. Bear in mind that the brake can be tensioned too much, which may mean it cannot be used. To fix this, you only need to loosen the nut and the lock nut slightly until you find the right tension.

If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to consult your trusted mechanic and leave it in their hands, because when in doubt, it is always better for a professional to handle the car. Of course, if it is an electronic parking brake, the mechanic must carry out the adjustment, since it is considerably more complex and requires specific tools.