What does it mean when the handbrake isn't holding?
If you draw the handbrake lever back, it should be firm and grasp the car firmly. If you must draw the lever all the way up to the top, or if the car continues to move after using the handbrake, the handbrake is not functioning properly.
This typically indicates a fault in the handbrake system, which can be mechanical (such as worn shoes or cables) or adjustment-related. Ignoring it can be dangerous, particularly if you park on slopes or uneven roads.
Common causes of the handbrake not holding properly
There are several possible reasons why your handbrake may lose its grip.
1. Stretched or worn handbrake cable
The handbrake cable connects the lever to the brakes at the wheels. Over time, the cable stretches, frays, or wears out due to repeated use or corrosion.
When this happens, the cable cannot pull the brake mechanism tight enough to hold the car properly.
Signs:
• The lever pulls up too high before engaging.
• The car rolls slightly even with the handbrake applied.
• The cable feels loose or slack.
Fix:
• Adjust or replace the handbrake cable.
• Apply lubrication to prevent rust and stiffness.
2. Out-of-adjustment handbrake
Many cars require periodic handbrake adjustment, especially after changing brake pads or shoes. If the system isn’t adjusted correctly, the handbrake lever will move too far before applying enough pressure.
Fix:
• Have the handbrake mechanism adjusted by a professional.
• Adjustment points are usually located near the lever or underneath the car.
3. Worn brake shoes or pads
In cars with drum brakes, the handbrake usually works on the rear brake shoes. If these shoes are worn or not seated correctly, they can’t grip the drum effectively.
In disc brake systems, worn pads can also cause poor handbrake performance.
Signs:
• Weak braking force at the rear wheels.
• Squealing or grinding noise.
• The car rolls even with the handbrake engaged.
Fix:
• Replace worn shoes or brake pads.
• Ensure they’re fitted and adjusted properly.
4. Seized or rusty components
If you rarely use the handbrake (for instance, when parking on flat ground), the cables or linkage can seize due to rust or dirt.
This prevents the mechanism from moving freely, resulting in either a loose or stiff handbrake that fails to hold correctly.
Fix:
• Clean and lubricate all moving parts.
• Replace seized cables or rusted linkage if necessary.
5. Rear brake drum or disc problems
If the rear brake drums or discs are worn, scored, or glazed, the handbrake won’t grip properly. The braking surfaces must be smooth and even to generate sufficient friction.
Fix:
• Resurface or replace damaged drums or discs.
• Replace brake shoes or pads if they’re contaminated with oil or grease.
6. Faulty self-adjusting mechanism
Some modern cars have self-adjusting handbrake systems. If the adjuster is faulty or jammed, it won’t take up the slack in the cable or shoes, leaving the handbrake loose.
Fix:
• Check and clean the self-adjusting mechanism.
• Replace faulty parts if required.
7. Air in the brake lines
In cars with rear disc brakes connected to the hydraulic system, air in the brake lines can reduce braking efficiency. This can cause the handbrake to feel weak, even if the cables and components are in good condition.
Fix:
• Bleed the brakes to remove air from the system.
• Check brake fluid levels and top up if needed.
8. Contaminated brake components
Sometimes brake shoes or pads get contaminated with oil, grease, or brake fluid due to leaks from the wheel cylinders or seals. This reduces friction and makes the handbrake ineffective.
Fix:
• Identify and repair the leak.
• Replace contaminated brake pads or shoes immediately.
The lever mechanism itself can wear out. If the internal ratchet teeth or release button fail, the handbrake may not stay engaged or may slip after application.
Fix:
• Inspect the lever assembly.
• Replace the handbrake lever if the internal mechanism is faulty.
10. Problems with rear callipers (in disc brake systems)
In cars with rear disc brakes, the handbrake often operates a small mechanical lever on the rear callipers. If this part sticks or fails, the handbrake won’t clamp the brakes properly.
Fix:
• Inspect rear callipers for corrosion or damage.
• Replace or rebuild faulty callipers.
How to check if your handbrake is working properly
You can perform a simple check at home to assess handbrake performance:
1. Park on a flat surface and engage the handbrake. The car should stay firmly in place.
2. Gradually pull the lever up. It should feel firm after 4–7 clicks.
3. Try parking on a gentle slope. If the car rolls slightly, the handbrake needs attention.
4. Inspect the cable and rear brakes visually if possible. Look for corrosion, leaks, or excessive wear.
If your handbrake doesn’t hold firmly, you can get it fixed at our ACKO Drive service centres. You can book a service slot online via the ACKO app or the ACKO Drive website. We offer free pick-up and drop-off services. Our experts inspect cables, levers, and rear brakes to find and fix the issue. We ensure your car stays secure even on steep slopes.
Risks of driving with a weak handbrake
A poorly functioning handbrake is more than a minor inconvenience; it poses a significant safety hazard. Some potential risks include:
• The car may roll unexpectedly when parked.
• Increased risk of accidents or damage to property.
• More serious brake system damage if the issue is ignored.
It is essential to note that you should never rely solely on gear engagement to hold the car in place. Always make sure your handbrake works effectively.
How to fix a weak or ineffective handbrake
The right fix depends on the root cause, but here’s what mechanics typically do:
1. Inspect and replace worn or stretched cables.
2. Adjust the handbrake system for correct tension.
3. Replace worn brake shoes, pads, or drums.
4. Bleed the brakes if air is present.
5. Clean and lubricate seized parts.
6. Repair leaks or replace contaminated components.
7. Replace the lever mechanism if it’s faulty.
After repairs, the mechanic will typically test the handbrake on a slope to ensure it engages correctly at the correct number of clicks.
How to prevent handbrake problems
By adopting a few good routines, most handbrake problems can be averted before they happen:
• Apply the handbrake on a regular basis. Even on flat terrain, occasional use stops the cable from seizing up.
• Don't pull the lever too tightly. Over-tightening will stretch the cable.
• Get the brakes serviced from time to time. Have the mechanic inspect and adjust the handbrake while the brakes are being serviced.
• Maintain clean brake parts. Rust and dirt are the primary reasons for failure.
• Replace brake fluid from time to time. Excess moisture in the system can lead to corrosion and reduced performance efficiency.
• Angles slightly towards the kerb when parking on an incline, as a second line of safety defence.
Proper care maintains your car’s handbrake as robust, efficient, and dependable as it needs to be when you're most in need of it.
Final words
A faulty handbrake that fails to engage is a serious safety hazard that must never be ignored. Whether the cause is worn-out cables, incorrect adjustment, or faulty brake parts, immediate attention is needed to prevent accidents or rolling danger.
Regular checks, such as for cables, brake shoes, and brake fluid, will ensure your handbrake remains firm and reliable. If you experience any weakness, such as excessive lever travel or movement of the car when parked, have it examined by a professional promptly.
Frequently asked questions
