Parking Brake System: Description and Operation

The parking brake system is applied by depressing the parking brake pedal. Applying the parking brake pedal places tension on the parking brake cables, which actuates the rear parking brake mechanism. This system mechanically forces the rear brake shoes against the brake drums which locks the rear brakes.

All wheel drive (AWD) vehicles are equipped with a four-wheel disc braking system. The parking brake system on vehicles equipped with rear disc brake systems uses brake shoes which are located inside a brake drum which is part of a one-piece drum/rotor casting. The brake shoes are mechanically applied to lock the rear brakes.

The parking brake must be adjusted any time the parking brake cables have been replaced or disconnected, or if the parking brake holding ability is inadequate.

The parking brake is not designed for use in the place of service brakes and should be applied only after the vehicle is brought to a complete stop, except in an emergency. Before working on the parking brake system, make sure the service brakes are in good working order and adjusted properly.