2001 Mazda 323 handbrake

2001 MAZDA 323
134,000 MILES
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WUMBERLOG59
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how do i adjust the handbrake on my Mazda 323 1.6 five door hatch back version which is a 51 plate from 2001 unless the handbrake is pulled up as far as it will go then the car can be pushed forward and even when pulled as far as it will it strains to hold the car even on gentle slope
Jul 11, 2013 at 7:03 AM
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KHLOW2008
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Handbrakes are self adjusting and if the handbrake cable has not been correctly adjusted, the auto adjusting feature would not function correctly.

Before pulling on the handbrake lever, softly lift it and feel for resistance. There must be a minimal slack for the cable to have free play and allow the auto adjuster to work. If there are no slack, under the center console at handbrake lever, loosen the adjusting nut until slack is present.

If rear brakes are disc, depressing the brakes a few times would adjust the handbrake.

The other thing you chould check would be a bad cable. When cables are seized, the handbrake would not work efficiently.
Jul 11, 2013 at 11:08 AM