Change Car Handbrake Cable
The handbrake cable transmits the force applied at the lever to the rear brakes, allowing the vehicle to be held stationary or on a slope. A frayed, corroded or broken cable directly compromises safety and can mean a fail at the MOT.
Electronic parking brake
On vehicles fitted with an electronic parking brake (EPB) there are no longer any cables. Replacing the components needs a diagnostic tool to disable and re-enable the system. Refer to the documentation specific to your vehicle.
How does the handbrake cable work?
The cables are made of stranded steel wires running inside outer sleeves. When you apply the handbrake, the tension on the cables clamps the drum shoes or the rear caliper pads, locking the wheels. On recent vehicles with an electronic parking brake, most no longer have cables: electric motors are built into the calipers.
When should you change the cables?
Handbrake cables are not wear parts on a fixed replacement schedule. Carry out a visual check at every service and a thorough check from 80,000 km, then every 40,000 km. Replace them if a cable is frayed, severed or heavily corroded, if the sleeve is damaged, or if the control is stiff or the lever travel too long.
What you need to know for the replacement
Difficulty and tools
This is a 1/5 difficulty job: technically easy, with no special tools. On cars with drum brakes, removing the drums can make the job harder.
Replace both cables
Always replace the cables as a set so braking is balanced on both sides, and to avoid having to do the job again a few weeks later.
Mind the length
Cable length can vary by side (left or right) and by brake type (disc or drum). Check the exact part reference before buying.
Adjustment essential
After replacement, adjust the handbrake tension via the adjuster nut near the lever. A poorly adjusted handbrake will fail the MOT.
Price of handbrake cables
The average garage price is around £120 for the cables, plus labour. From a motor factor, allow £15 to £40 per cable depending on the model.
