Resolving Volkswagen Parking Brake Issues

by admin August 23, 2024

Are you wondering why your Volkswagen is rolling downhill after parking? This is usually a sign that your parking brake is not in good shape. The parking brake is a secondary braking system that immobilizes the vehicle when it is parked. While the primary brake system is often hydraulically operated to slow or stop the car, the parking brake usually uses a cable mechanism linked to the rear brakes. This cable system engages the brakes by hand and stops the wheels from rotating.

In many modern Volkswagen models, particularly those equipped with electronic parking brakes, the system is initiated by a button rather than a lever. Regardless of the type your VW is using, the parking brake is critical, as it ensures that your car does not move when parked. When it fails, it becomes not just an inconvenience, but a safety concern.

Symptoms of a Bad Parking Brake

• Loose Brake Lever: If the parking brake lever appears to be soft or easily compressible, then there is a possibility that it is not holding the car securely. It should feel very firm when you apply the parking brake.
• Car Rolls After Parking: Several symptoms can be an indicator of a faulty parking brake, but one of the clearest is if your VW begins to move when you park it. This could occur on a flat surface or slopes, meaning that the brake is not holding the wheels as required.
• Warning Light: Another feature that you can find in many Volkswagens, includes a parking brake warning light. If this light remains on once you have let off the parking brake, or if it blinks while you are driving, then you must take it seriously and get it checked out.
• Strange Noises: If you notice any grinding, squeaking, or any other kind of noise when you engage or release the parking brake, then this could mean that your parking brake parts are worn or damaged.

How to Troubleshoot a Non-Functional Parking Brake

• Inspect Brake Pads: Begin with examining the brake pads or shoes. If you see that they have been worn to less than a quarter of an inch, it is time to replace them. Changing brake pads or shoes is not very complicated, but it would be wise to allow a mechanic to do the replacement.
• Inspect Brake Cables: The next step is to examine the brake cables to determine if they are stretched, damaged, or broken. If the cables are damaged, they will have to be replaced. Replacing parking brake cables is a process that is slightly more complicated and often requires disassembling the interior or underbody of the car. This is a job that only a professional mechanic should do.
• Search for Corrosion or Rust: Check the parking brake mechanism for any signs or build-up of rust. If you come across some rusty parts, then they will have to be cleaned or replaced.
• Check Electronic Parking Brake: If your Volkswagen is equipped with an electronic parking brake, then you will have to look into the electronic system. First of all, check whether the switch is working properly or not. If the switch is okay but the parking brake is still not functioning, the problem may lie in the brake control module or wiring. It is not very advisable to attempt to diagnose and repair electronic problems in a Volkswagen car on your own. Visit the Volkswagen dealership or an independent mechanic for the best solution.
• Adjust the Parking Brake: In some cases, all that is required is to tweak the parking brake to solve any problems associated with it. If the brake lever is soft, it can be tightened, the brake cable can be adjusted, or the brake shoes adjusted. The exact instructions as to how to fix the parking brake will be determined by a Volkswagen expert.

Get Expert Parking Brake Repairs at McIlvain Motors in Tempe

Whether the problem is a minor or a major one, it is always best to address parking brake problems as soon as possible to keep your Volkswagen safe on the road and protected while parked. If you are having parking brake issues with your Volkswagen and do not know how to solve them, turn to us at McIlvain Motors. Our highly trained and experienced technicians can identify and rectify all parking brake problems, making your car safe to use. You can come to our shop in Tempe, AZ if you reside in neighboring areas like Chandler, Mesa, Phoenix, and Scottsdale, AZ. Call us now or book an appointment online.