Hi all, my 2002 4.4 has just failed MOT, a brake hose, front ball joint, no issues and very cheap from british parts but the handbrake is causing headaches, Tried adjusting prior to MOT and couldn't get any handbrake. Replaced rear handbrake shoes and discs and whilst jacked up seemed ok but when on wheels no handbrake again. Self sdjustment seems to be working so friend suggests maybe the cable stretched due to being knackered so long.

Can't find any info on cost of handbrake cable or if difficult to fit? Any ideas suggestions welcomed as my free re test days are ticking down!!

Cable costs around £30 from LR.

Wear gloves when fitting at the centre console as the metal surround is razor sharp

Thanks. Just rung a few pplaces and indeed 29.41 plus vat each. Can't get in till Tuesday though

Any idea if a difficult job and whats required??

Awkward more than difficult

Need to remove rear wheel, caliper,disc, handbrake shoes and remove cable from expander. Loosen 10mm bolt at rear of backplate and pull old cable through, it may be seized, if so cut end nipple off cable and pull through, use a punch to remove metal sleve from backplate.

Remove rear panel of centre console, lock off handbrake adjuster with metal pin, remove insert from centre console remove the 2 bolts that hold centre console down. Lift centre console upwards to allow access to underneath, unhook old cable and pull out from underneath the car (you need to remove the heat shield to allow access to the cable).

Fitting is reversal

47p2, i've placed this 'how to ' into the wiki with credit to you .

scarey wrote:

47p2, i've placed this 'how to ' into the wiki with credit to you .

Fresh in my memory after changing mine last week and still have the wounds from cutting my thumb on the sharp metal edge twice in the same place

post a picture of your bloody thumb and i'll include that as well...

scarey wrote:

post a picture of your bloody thumb and i'll include that as well...

It was sore enough slicing through the first time but when the second cut sliced in at the exact same spot I almost cried


Real men don't wear gloves or cry

Thanks. Great explanation

All done and full ticket now. Thanks for help.

Glad you managed to get it sorted