Emergency Parking Brake Cable Replacement Cost
Worried about potential overpayments for your emergency/parking brake cable replacement? MyMechanic's can help you obtain a fair cost estimate for this service.
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How much does it cost to replace an emergency parking brake cable?
The average cost for an emergency parking brake cable replacement varies, including parts cost and labor charges. Prices can vary based on your vehicle’s make and model.
The parts cost covers a new brake cable and potentially new emergency brake shoes if they're worn. Labor involves approximately 1 to 3 hours of work by a certified mechanic, including inspection, repair assessment, and cable replacement.
How were these prices determined?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do you need for an emergency parking brake cable replacement?
To replace an emergency parking brake cable, you'll need the cable itself and any associated hardware like clips, fasteners, or adjustment mechanisms. It's also advisable to inspect and possibly replace other components of the emergency brake system if they show signs of wear or damage.
- A new emergency/parking brake cable: The emergency parking brake cable links the emergency parking brake control (such as a pedal, lever, or button) to your brakes, providing an alternative means of stopping the vehicle. It engages the brake shoes (or brake pads), creating friction to halt the wheels from rolling. Despite being made of durable, braided steel, these cables can rust and break over time.
- A new emergency parking brake shoe: In a drum brake system, the parking shoe pushes outward against the brake drums, securing them in place through friction. Like standard brake shoes, the parking brake shoe can wear down or deform after prolonged use
- New brake pads: In a disc brake system, the brake pads grip the rotors, securing them in place through friction. Both the brake pads and the brake calipers to which they attach are susceptible to wear and abrasion with extensive use.
- New emergency parking brake controls (price varies by type): Whether it's a parking brake lever, pedal, or electronic button, the control activates your vehicle's secondary brake system. Excessive or inadequate use may cause the parking brake control to become stuck or malfunction.
Keep in mind: To put your emergency parking brake system in order, your mechanic may install a new cable, shoe, pad, or control.
OEM parts may come at a higher price compared to aftermarket parts, but they often come with superior warranties. For instance, a new authentic Toyota emergency parking brake cable includes a 24-month/25,000-mile warranty when installed by a certified Toyota mechanic. The cost of OEM parts can also vary depending on the car manufacturer; for instance, Nissan, Chevrolet, and Dodge offer more affordable OEM parts compared to BMW or Mercedes-Benz.
However, it's worth noting that some aftermarket performance parts manufacturers provide similar or even better quality than OEM parts, and they are typically available at a lower price.
Trusted mechanic,MyMechanic's can assist you. It's a free tool that allows you to compare costs from over 2,500 reputable automotive repair shops across the Malesiya.
Here's how it operates: MyMechanic's compares fair repair cost estimates from numerous auto repair shops based on their actual hourly labor cost. This information helps you determine if you'll face diagnostic fees or other additional expenses. Additionally, you can read real customer reviews to gauge the quality of services offered by these shops.
Where can I get my emergency/parking brake cable replaced?
To ensure you get the best deal, it's crucial to compare prices effectively with accurate data. Consider using MyMechanic's our auto repair estimate service, to discover reputable mechanics in your vicinity!
MyMechanic's provides transparent pricing estimates* for brake cable replacements and various repairs across the country, sourced from over 2,500 trusted repair shops. Explore their labor costs, diagnostic fees, and authentic user reviews to make an informed choice!
How did we vet these shops
If you don’t have a mechanic on speed dial, we've got you covered! Try out MyMechanic our free maintenance app designed to help you compare costs from over 2,500 trusted repair shops across the Malesiya.
Instead of automatically heading to the nearest dealership service center, use MyMechanic app to compare estimates from all available options. The app utilizes real hourly labor rates to provide fair price estimates, empowering you to make an informed decision when selecting an auto repair shop. Moreover, you'll have access to genuine reviews to assist you in making your choice. Check out some of our verified shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.
How will a mechanic fix my emergency brake cable?
A mechanic will repair your emergency brake cable by employing basic automotive knowledge, tools, and manual skills. Thoroughness is key, as they will rigorously test the emergency brake system after replacement.
While working on your vehicle, the mechanic will also inspect your brake shoes, drums, or rotors. Here’s the general process they'll follow:
- Lift your vehicle and disengage the emergency parking brake.
- Use wire cutters to detach the brake cable from the rear brake assembly.
- Use wire cutters and pliers to disconnect the brake cable from the front brake assembly.
- Thread the new cable through the brakes and connect it near the rear wheels, securing it firmly.
- Test the functionality of your emergency parking brake.
Is it safe to drive with a broken emergency brake line?
No, driving with a broken emergency parking brake line is not safe. A malfunction could lead to your vehicle rolling unexpectedly or being unable to stop in emergencies. Although the backup braking system may seem unnecessary if your main brakes are functioning, it serves as a crucial safety measure in critical situations.
What is an emergency parking brake cable replacement?
An emergency parking brake cable replacement involves inspecting and replacing the cable that links your emergency brake controls to your disc or drum brakes. This cable operates like a brake pedal but relies on a cable rather than brake fluid to exert pressure. Over time, the cable may corrode and fracture, leading to unintended vehicle movement even when the parking brake is engaged.
When do I need an emergency parking brake cable replacement?
The emergency parking brake cable, as part of your brake system, should undergo an annual inspection. It's advisable to engage the parking brake each time you park to maintain its proper adjustment. Signs indicating a need for a new cable include:
- Inability to keep the car stationary.
- Failure to disengage.
- Illumination of a warning light.
Every element of your brake system plays a crucial role in safe driving. Neglecting minor issues can escalate into significant safety hazards or major malfunctions down the line. If you encounter a warning light or difficulties with your emergency parking brakes, consult a mechanic to assess the brake cable.
MORE: Troubleshooting guide for non-holding parking brakes
How long do emergency brake cables last?
Emergency brake cables are designed to last the entire lifespan of your vehicle. However, factors such as frequent or infrequent use and extreme weather conditions can contribute to premature cable failure. If your vehicle is older than 10 years or has traveled more than 145,000 miles, it's advisable to have the cable inspected.
Can I do an emergency parking brake cable replacement myself?
As for performing an emergency parking brake cable replacement yourself, it is indeed possible. You'll need basic tools like a jack, jack stands, pliers, wire cutters, a flashlight, a flat screwdriver, and a socket or wrench set. This DIY brake repair typically takes about two hours and requires some manual dexterity.
FAQs
Parking brake cables can fail if they’re broken, frayed, or detached. Salty roads, wintry conditions, and the resulting rust could cause a cable to snap. A loose car component or faulty clip could rub against or fray the cable. Or, if your car sustains damage to its underside, the intact brake cable could be jolted out of place.
Yes, the parking brake, emergency brake, e-brake, and handbrake are all interchangeable terms for the same function. It can be activated by a lever, pedal, or electronic button, providing an alternative braking method if your main brakes fail.
It's safe to leave your emergency brake engaged overnight, but it's not recommended to keep it on for extended periods. Prolonged use can lead to the brake pads (or brake shoes) sticking to the brake rotors (or drums). Additionally, wet weather conditions like rain or snow might freeze the cable, increasing the risk of it snapping
