What Are The Reasons For A Ford Parking Brake Failure?
Your parking brake is more than just a backup system—it’s a critical safety feature that helps secure your Ford when parked on inclines or uneven surfaces. Whether you drive a Ford F-150, Escape, Edge, or Explorer, a reliable parking brake gives peace of mind, especially in emergencies. But like any mechanical system, it can wear down or fail over time. Understanding the causes of parking brake failure can help you prevent accidents, costly repairs, and unwanted surprises.
Let’s explore the most common reasons your Ford’s parking brake might stop working—and what to do about it.
- Worn or Stretched Parking Brake Cables
Traditional mechanical parking brakes rely on a cable system to hold your vehicle in place. Over time, these cables can stretch or wear out, reducing the tension needed to properly engage the brake.
Signs of cable wear include:
- The brake lever or pedal pulls too easily or feels loose
- The brake doesn’t hold the vehicle securely on a slope
- A grinding or snapping sound when engaging the brake
If the cable breaks entirely, your parking brake may stop functioning altogether.
- Corrosion and Rust
Corrosion is a major cause of parking brake failure, especially in areas with snow, ice, or road salt. Moisture can seep into the cables, levers, and other metal parts, causing them to rust and seize up.
Symptoms of corrosion-related failure:
- The brake feels stuck or doesn’t release after being disengaged
- A burning smell from the rear wheels if the brake stays partially engaged
- Difficulty setting the brake even with full pedal or lever application
Rust can lock components in place or cause internal damage, requiring professional cleaning or replacement.
- Faulty Parking Brake Actuator (Electronic Systems)
Many newer Ford models use an electronic parking brake system (EPB) instead of a traditional mechanical lever. These systems rely on electric motors and sensors to activate the brake.
Common electronic brake issues include:
- Warning lights on your dashboard (e.g., “Brake System Fault”)
- The parking brake won’t engage or disengage with the button
- Unusual clicking or whirring noises from the rear wheels
Electronic systems are sensitive to wiring issues, faulty sensors, or software errors and often require dealer-level diagnostics.
- Worn Rear Brake Components
In most Ford vehicles, the parking brake applies pressure to the rear brakes. If those brake pads, shoes, or rotors are worn out, the parking brake won’t have enough grip to hold the vehicle properly.
Watch for:
- A parking brake that no longer holds, even when applied tightly
- Squeaking or grinding noises when using the parking brake
- Rear brakes that feel weak or uneven during normal driving
A brake system inspection can determine whether the rear components are affecting your parking brake’s performance.
- Improper Adjustments or Neglected Maintenance
Parking brakes need occasional adjustment to ensure the right tension, especially after brake service. If adjustments are skipped or done incorrectly, you may experience partial engagement or complete failure.
Routine inspections help catch early signs of misalignment or component wear before the brake becomes unreliable.
Visit Fairway Ford of Canfield for Reliable Brake Service
If you suspect parking brake failure in your Ford, don’t wait until it’s too late. At Fairway Ford of Canfield, our certified technicians can accurately diagnose the issue—whether it’s worn cables, corrosion, or a faulty electronic actuator—and perform the necessary repairs to restore your safety and confidence behind the wheel.
And if you’re exploring your next ride, we also invite you to browse our wide selection of new and pre-owned Ford vehicles, all inspected for performance and safety.
Visit Fairway Ford of Canfield today for trusted brake service and expert care for your Ford vehicle.
