Hi, Great site!

I recently failed NJ state inspection for "emergency brake fails to hold vehicle". Went to Midas to have it checked out/repaired and was told I needed new rotors for the emergency brakes because mine were rusted/cracked and I probably never use them... The quote for the replacement/new rotors was $378.00. I didn't get it done. I thought it was a rip off. My car is no longer under warranty so I didn't try the dealer. I have to get this fixed to pass inspection and maintain my NJ registration within 45 days.

Any help, and clarity on the way the emergency brakes work on the 03 Sedan and recommendations will be much appreciated.

Thanks everyone.

Cool_G

 

E-brake is cable activated, not hydraulic, and presses a shoe to the inside of the rear rotor hat. Unless your rotors are totally toast, I don't see why you would need to replace them just for the e-brake. Likely the e-brake just needs to be adjusted (tightened). Attached is the FSM procedure for adjusting the e-brake.

How many miles on the rear brakes?

 

Awesome info.

 

The rear brakes were resurfaced (at the same midas shop) @31920 when I had my brakes done and 30k service performed by them in Aug '07

I currently have 36286 miles.


Thanks for your help, instructions and response G35fromPA.

Cool_G

 

No worries. At 36k, assuming they meet minimum thickness and aren't cracked as they claim (ask them to show you where), you should still have some life left in 'em.

 

Just trying to help out the cause.

I've gotten plenty of great info from here...