What Are The Reasons For A Subaru Parking Brake Failure?

We all rely on our parking brakes to keep our Subaru secure when parked, especially on inclines or uneven ground. But, like anything in your car, your parking brake can fail. If you’ve noticed your parking brake acting up—maybe it's not holding your car in place, or it’s not releasing properly—there are a few common reasons why this might be happening. Understanding these issues can help you tackle them early. Let’s dive into some of the main causes behind Subaru parking brake failure, and don’t forget, if you need a hand, Empire Subaru can help!

1. Worn or Stretched Brake Cables

Brake cables are crucial for your parking brake to work, as they’re responsible for engaging and releasing the brake. Over time, these cables can stretch or even wear out. When this happens, the brake won't function as effectively—it may not fully engage or could even slip while driving. If you find that the parking brake is too loose or doesn’t hold your car as well as it used to, it’s probably time to replace those cables. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent issues like this.

2. Internal Mechanism Issues

Inside the brake drum or caliper, there’s a mechanism that helps apply pressure when you pull the parking brake. If there’s a malfunction inside this system, like rust, corrosion, or wear, your brake might not engage properly. This can result in a parking brake that’s either too weak or not working at all. The internal parts may need to be cleaned, lubricated, or even replaced to restore full functionality. If you’ve noticed your parking brake feeling unusually loose, it could be due to these internal issues.

3. Brake Fluid Leaks (For Hydraulic Systems)

Some Subaru models use a hydraulic system for the parking brake, and in those cases, low or leaking brake fluid can prevent it from working properly. Brake fluid leaks, especially in the lines, can cause the hydraulic pressure needed to activate the parking brake to drop, making it ineffective. If you notice that your fluid levels are low or you see brake fluid pooling, it’s a good idea to have the system checked out—this could be a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.

4. Rust and Corrosion Problems

Rust can be a big issue, especially if you live in areas with wet conditions or salty roads. Over time, the parts of your parking brake system, such as the cables or brake components, can rust. When this happens, parts may seize or become stiff, preventing your parking brake from working as it should. In extreme cases, corrosion might even damage critical components of the brake system. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent rust, and if you suspect corrosion, it's best to have a technician check it out before it worsens.

5. Improper Adjustment

Sometimes, the parking brake just needs a little adjustment. As the brake cables age, they can stretch, and if they’re not tightened correctly, the parking brake might not engage properly. You’ll know something’s off if you find the parking brake feels too loose or requires a lot of force to pull up. Getting your parking brake adjusted is a quick and easy fix that can restore its effectiveness.

6. Faulty Parking Brake Handle

Another common problem might be the parking brake handle itself. If the handle feels loose, doesn’t click into place, or seems stuck, the internal mechanism could be broken. It might not be able to pull or release the brake as it should. In that case, it’s usually necessary to replace the handle or fix the mechanism inside.

If your Subaru’s parking brake isn’t working quite like it should, don’t put off getting it checked out. Whether it’s worn cables, internal mechanism issues, or something else, it’s always better to address the problem sooner rather than later. Need some expert help? Visit Empire Subaru and let us help you get your parking brake back in top shape!