Coupe Handbrake

[MattHall91]

Hi all,

Does anybody know how easy it is to tighten the hand brake? Or is it a garage job?

I have to have it on the highest notch and in 1st on my drive and the first few notches don't hold it on even the slightest incline.

Thanks.

 

[Dale_B]

This quick video will give you a good idea on how the system works: http://youtu.be/hfw5spZQvoI

It can be done without removing the wheels, but in fairness, it's a lot easier to get the rear wheels off and inspect/adjust as necessary etc...

 

[MattHall91]

Cheers Dale.

I think I'll just take it in and pay for the labour. Do KwikFit do that sort of thing?

 

[Dale_B]

Not sure if they do that sort of thing, probably. Maybes better to find a local independent

 

[Scooba_Steve]

Kwikfit? Sell the car, you don't deserve one

 

[MattHall91]

I was just thinking during my break from work tomorrow in the afternoon. I'm the least mechanical person on this planet.

If not I'll visit my indie next week!

 

[flimper]

Does it work OK if you try the handbrake twice?

 

[MattHall91]

Not tried that, will do tomorrow. How come?

 

[lotusboy]

Dealer advice is that the handbrake typically only works on top two clicks and should not be tightened below this as its normal. Get used to parking in gear..

 

[Scooba_Steve]

Dealer advice is that the handbrake typically only works on top two clicks and should not be tightened below this as its normal. Get used to parking in gear..

Top two clicks on he handbrake or the adjuster?

 

[Highlander]

Kwikfit? Sell the car, you don't deserve one

Seriously though,no offence,but wouldn't let any "Kwikfit" type outfit blow up the tyre on my garden wheelbarrow.

 

[bluestreak56]

Yes kwikfit will adjust it. In some cases these guys are better than main dealers, but it all depends on the mechanic in question, overall not the best choice but how badly can you screw up a handbrake cable?

 

[Scooba_Steve]

Let them give it a go but don't be surprised if it causes grief, I'd be watching them like a hawk!

 

[mvshizzle]

Independent garage screwed my handbrake up in the past, costing me a set of rear discs and pads. It is a self adjusting system, so best let BMW look at it if you do not know what you are doing. There is a specific TIS out on how to adjust your handbrakes. Most mechanics forget to release and reset the mechanism under the handbrake lever.

 

[Steve84N]

Is the mechanism under the lever just for releasing the tension making it easier to adjust at the wheel or does it affect the overall result?

 

[mvshizzle]

My understanding is that if you do not release the tension on the lever, you will screw up the system.

If you don't put the tension back, the handbrake won't work properly.

 

[Steve84N]

I hope not as I've already adjusted it without taking the tension off due to not being able to without taking the centre console apart...