Parking brake seize in cold weather - Passat

[bighands]

Just noticed this winter that if I left the brake on, and it went below freezing, my parking brake would freeze up by the next morning. It was very frustrating, especially when you're trying to get somewhere. I thought it was the caliper sticking, but when I got under the car this week, I found the passenger side brake cable sheathing was cut where it passes the rear trailing arm. I disconnected the cable from the caliper, let the cable hang, and watched water drain out of the cable housing. I also sprayed a water-displacing lubricant (SPD9-bike lubricant) into the small cut, and into the end of the housing under the center console. Problem solved.
Jim

 

[VelvetFoot]

My opinion is that your problem is not solved. This is based on a previous experience. Perhaps my cable was too far gone, but....

 

[chopchop]

VF is right. That problem will rear its ugly head again. Replace the damaged cable. In the meantime, park the car with the handbrake off (& in gear) if safe to do so.

Actually, the pads or shoes can rust on, even in the summer, if you leave the car parked for a few days after you've washed it. You'll feel a sharp "clunk' as the rust seal is broken. I always try to leave my handbrake off if my car's going to be parked for a while (almost always at home anyway).

- Richard

 

[bighands]

good point. I covered the cut with duct tape and then several layers of aluminum duct tape. So it should stay dry, but you're right, the cable may be damaged. We'll see, so far it's working fine, even with the temps barely getting above freezing here in Va lately.