How to release a stuck parking brake

The parking brake is an important braking element that is used only when the vehicle is parked. This helps relieve unnecessary stress on the transmission when the vehicle is not in motion or parked on a slope. AT…

The parking brake is an important braking element that is used only when the vehicle is parked. This helps relieve unnecessary stress on the transmission when the vehicle is not in motion or parked on a slope. The parking brake is also commonly referred to as the emergency brake, "electronic brake", or handbrake. The parking brake consists of a system of springs and cables, which are mostly protected by a casing; but depending on the make, model and year of your vehicle, the components may be more or less protected.

Usually the problem with a frozen parking brake occurs on older vehicles. Newer vehicles have more protected parking brake components that keep moisture out and prevent them from freezing. But, depending on the winter conditions in your area, you may have problems with a stuck parking brake.

Some common preventative measures you can take to keep the emergency brake in good working order include using it frequently and keeping the brake fluid reservoir full at all times to ensure maximum lubrication. Also, checking the parking brake should be part of your regular vehicle maintenance, especially for older vehicles that still have the original parking brake. Over time, parking brake cables can wear out, and those that are less sheathed can rust.

Below are a few different methods you can use to help release a frozen parking brake. Depending on the weather conditions you live in, one method may be better than the other.

Necessary materials

• Extension cable (optional)
• Hairdryer (optional)
• Hammer or mallet (optional)

Step 1: Start the vehicle to warm up the engine and other vehicle components.. Sometimes this action alone can help warm up the undercarriage enough to melt the ice holding the parking brake, but depending on how cold it is, this can take a long time.

However, keep the engine running throughout the entire parking brake disengagement process so that heat can continue to build up.

• Functions: A slight increase in engine speed can speed up engine warm-up. You don't want the engine to run at high RPM, so don't run it too high or for too long to avoid possible engine damage.

Step 2. Try disengaging the parking brake several times.. The idea here is to break any ice that might be holding it.

If you have tried to disengage ten or more times, stop and go to the next step.

Step 3: Determine the problem by checking the parking brake.. The parking brake is connected to a specific tire; check the user manual if you don't know which one.

Check the wheel that the parking brake is attached to and hit it with a hammer or mallet and try to break off any ice that might be holding it back. A slight movement of the cable can also help break up the ice.

Try releasing the parking brake again; several times if needed.

Step 4. Try to melt the ice with a heating tool.. You can use a hair dryer or even hot water - although hot water can make things worse in extremely cold temperatures.

If necessary, extend the extension cord to the machine and connect the hair dryer. Point it at the frozen part of the cable or at the brake itself and set the maximum value.

Alternatively, if you are using hot water, boil it and pour it over the frozen area, then try to release the parking brake as soon as possible.

While you're trying to break the ice, move the brake cable with your other hand or tap it with a mallet or mallet to speed up the process. Try releasing the parking brake again; several times if necessary.

Method 2 of 2: Use engine heat to melt the ice under the car.

Necessary materials

• Snow shovel or regular shovel

You can only use this method if there is excess snow that you can use to seal the car's undercarriage.

• A warning: Due to the risk of carbon monoxide buildup inside the vehicle, only use this method when you are outside the vehicle, when all windows are down and the air conditioner or heater inside is running at maximum power.

Step 1: Start the vehicle to warm up the engine and other vehicle components.. Keep the engine running throughout the entire process.

Step 2: Use a snow shovel and create a snow barrier. The snow barrier should cover all or most of the space between the ground and the bottom of the vehicle on both sides and rear, leaving the front open to air.

Creating a pocket under the car will allow heat to build up under the car faster than if it were outdoors.

Continue to keep an eye on the barrier you've built, making sure to repair parts that have melted or collapsed.

• Functions: If there is a strong wind, you can also insulate the front part so that there is not too much air circulation, which can damage the insulation and slow down the melting process.

Step 3: Wait outside the car until the engine warms up.. Continue repairing any melted or broken sections of the barrier.

Step 4: Check the parking brake periodically to make sure it releases.. If it doesn't release, wait longer for more heat to build up and check again until the parking brake releases.

If the above methods did not help you release the parking brake, you will probably need to have a professional mechanic inspect your vehicle. One of our best mechanics at AvtoTachki can come to your home or office to repair your parking brake at a reasonable price.