2000 Cavalier Parking Brake issue
 

Howdy, all, Here's hoping someone can better educate me.

This morning, when parking my car, I lifted the parking brake like I usually do, and heard no ratcheting from the handle. Also, the button on the handle now sticks out about 1/2" more than it usually does. I *do* still get a parking brake indicator when I lift the handle, but it doesn't lock into place.

I suspect that either a cable broke, or the mount-point of a cable broke somewhere in the system. Anyone have any other ideas or suggestions?

Thanks,
--Aahz

RE: 2000 Cavalier Parking Brake issue
 

um yeah
does the parking brake hold the car in place when you are holding it up
if it does it is not the cable (most likley)
can u push the button in while lifting and if so does it ratchet
if so i would suggest it is the actuall handle assembly

good luck

RE: 2000 Cavalier Parking Brake issue
 

That's a very good question...I haven't put the car in a location where I can test whether or not it'll keep the vehicle stopped while I hold it in the raised position yet. I'll test it ASAP. I know that I hear no ratcheting when I lift the brake handle with the button pressed - it's how I usually raise the handle (I don't like listening to the ratcheting noise most of the time, so I raise it into position and then release the button).

Thanks for the response and idea,
--Aahz

RE: 2000 Cavalier Parking Brake issue
 

Okay, after testing it yesterday, the brake *does* work when I raise the handle, it just doesn't ratchet. Sounds like a replacement Brake Handle assembly is needed. Thanks for the help, all.

--Aahz

My friend has a 2000 chevy cavalier and the emergency brake doesn't work anymore? What do you think is the problem?

Considering all the information you've provided I'd say it's broken.