The importance of your Land Rover’s parking brake extends beyond just immobilization: it operates independently of the primary braking system and can be used to stop the vehicle safely in emergency situations. When used properly, it can prevent potential damage to the transmission and braking system. Today’s blog post aims to help Land Rover owners use their parking brake effectively.
Understanding The Parking Brake System
The primary responsibility of your Land Rover’s parking brake is to hold the vehicle stationary when parked on an inclined surface. It is also given the name the emergency brake― because it can be used in emergency situations when the primary braking system malfunctions. Using it in conjunction with the transmission’s parking gear can reduce strain on key gearbox components and prevent premature wear.
Unlike the hydraulic brakes, the handbrake doesn’t use brake fluid pressure to engage brake pads against the rotors. It operates mechanically and can be activated by pulling up a lever or pressing a button. Once the handbrake lever is pulled, it will tighten the cables connected to the rear brakes- effectively holding the rear wheels in place. As with any other part of your Land Rover, the parking brake can malfunction. A malfunctioning parking brake, if not repaired on time, can impact your vehicle’s handling and performance.
A Detailed Explanation Of How To Use The Parking Brake Effectively
Engaging the parking brake
The very first thing that you should do is to locate the parking brake lever or button (newer models come with an electronic button instead of a lever). To engage the parking brake, pull up the handbrake lever firmly (or push the electronic button) until you feel resistance. To check if the parking brake has engaged, release your foot from the foot brake pedal momentarily.
Disengaging the parking brake
Before you try to disengage your Land Rover’s parking brake, use the primary braking system to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly. Locate the release button on the lever, press it and push the lever down to disengage the parking brake. If it is an electronic system, simply pressing the release button will do the job.
Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Parking Brake In Top Condition
Routine maintenance is key to ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of your Land rover’s parking brake. Listed below are a few things that you can do to ensure the upkeep of one of the most important components of your vehicle.
#1- Inspect regularly
The best approach to identify and address potential issues with the vehicle’s parking brake before they escalate into expensive repairs is routine inspection. Check on your Land Rover’s parking brake system components periodically. Look for signs of wear, fraying, or corrosion. If there’s something off with the lever or if the cable is damaged, get it repaired before it translates into major safety issues.
#2- Adjust as needed
The cable linking your Land Rover’s hand brake lever to the rear wheels can get stretched over time. Additionally, the lever mechanism that you relay on to activate your vehicle’s handbrake can deteriorate with use and age. These are a few things that can impact the functionality of your vehicle’s handbrake system. Regular adjustments to the lever mechanism and cable are therefore important.
#3- Lubricate mechanisms
The parking brake of your Land Rover relies on a network of components to transmit force applied on the lever to the wheels. Lubrication is crucial for all these metal made components to function smoothly and efficiently. Apply grease or lubricant to the pivotal points of the handbrake, including the lever, to reduce friction and wear of key components.
#4- Professional service
If your Land Rover’s handbrake is not working the way it should, don’t take it for granted. A glitch in such an essential safety feature can compromise your vehicle’s handling and performance characteristics. Find out the glitch that’s been preventing the handbrake from performing its entrusted task smoothly and efficiently. You can contact skilled professionals to have the system serviced and restore its functionality.
My Euro Pro: South Carolina’s Most Trusted Land Rover Service Center
Having trouble engaging your Land Rover’s handbrake? Don’t take it for granted. Reach out to the nearest European auto repair shop to get the issue diagnosed and addressed by certified technicians who have years of experience dealing with such issues. If you are living in South Carolina, particularly in locations such as Myrtle Beach and Charleston, you can contact us at My Euro Pro. Want to schedule an appointment with us right now? Give us a call or visit our website now.