Jeep Cherokee Parking Brake Won’t Release

A parking brake that just doesn’t want to let go. Picture this: A perfect morning, you’re ready to head out, but your Jeep Cherokee has other ideas, particularly its parking brake.

Reasons can vary starting from corroded brake cables to damaged return springs. Have no fear because we are here, let’s explore in depth and find the problem together.

Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Parking Brake

Parking brakes play a crucial role in keeping your vehicle stationary, especially on inclined surfaces. However, like that one friend who overstays their welcome at parties, sometimes they just won’t let go. But how can you tell if it’s truly a parking brake malfunction and not something else? Here are some telltale signs:

• Dragging Sensation: If you feel like you’re trying to drag a giant invisible boulder behind you as you drive, chances are your parking brake is still engaged.
• Unusual Noises: Your Jeep might communicate with a series of grunts, squeals, or grinding sounds. No, it’s not trying to sing along to your tunes. It’s hinting at a parking brake issue.
• Warning Lights: That persistent little brake light on your dashboard isn’t joining in on a fun light show. It’s there to tell you something’s up!
• The Smell of Trouble: Notice a burning smell? That’s not your barbecue gone wild. It’s possibly the aftermath of your brake pads working overtime due to an engaged parking brake.
• Hot Wheel Hub: After a short drive, if your rear wheel hub feels hotter than usual, it might be a sign of a brake dragging due to a malfunctioning parking brake.

Reasons Why Parking Brakes Won’t Release

The parking brake, an integral component of the Jeep Cherokee’s safety system, occasionally encounters issues that prevent its release. Such malfunctions can cause inconvenience and potential safety concerns. 

It is imperative for vehicle owners to be aware of the potential causes behind these issues. This article elucidates the primary reasons why parking brakes may not release as intended:

1. Temperature Impact: In regions with notably low temperatures, the brake fluid can freeze or ice can accumulate on brake components, thereby hindering the release mechanism of the parking brake.

2. Corrosion and Oxidation: Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to the formation of rust on the parking brake components. This corrosion can impede the proper functionality of the parking brake.

3. Cable Malfunctions: The brake cables play a pivotal role in transmitting the driver’s input to the brake mechanism. Damage, misalignment, or degradation of these cables can disrupt this transmission, resulting in the brake remaining engaged.

4. Hydraulic System Discrepancies: Modern vehicles, including the Jeep Cherokee, utilize hydraulic systems to operate their brakes. Complications such as fluid leaks or the presence of air bubbles in the system can adversely affect the brake’s release mechanism.

5. Wear and Tear: Over time, the components of the parking brake system are subject to natural degradation due to regular usage. This wear and tear can lead to the brake’s inability to disengage effectively.

6. Excessive Engagement: Applying an undue amount of force when engaging the parking brake can sometimes result in the brake getting over-tightened, thereby making its release challenging

Understanding the potential reasons behind parking brake malfunctions is crucial for the effective maintenance and operation of the vehicle.

How to Fix Parking Bake That Won’t Release

When the parking brake of your Jeep Cherokee chooses to cling for dear life, it’s not just a mere inconvenience, it can be a safety concern. While humor can lighten the mood like imagining your Jeep just wanting an extra few moments of rest it’s essential to tackle this issue head-on. Here’s how to get that stubborn parking brake to cooperate:

1. Manual Release

Start by locating the parking brake lever or button in your Jeep. For buttons, give a firm push, and for levers, pull hard several times to check if it releases. Occasionally, an obstruction or foreign object might jam it, so ensure nothing is in the way.

2. Lubrication

Sometimes, brakes become stuck due to rust or lack of moisture. In such cases, spraying a quality lubricant on the brake components, especially the cables, can help. Remember, it’s crucial to ensure your car is securely positioned and won’t roll while you’re working on it.

3. Adjust Brake Cable

As a too-tight cable can be the culprit behind a non-releasing brake. The adjustment nut, generally found underneath the car, can be slightly loosened to test the brake’s release. Once it works fine, tighten it back to its original position.

4. Frozen Parts

Cold weather can cause brake components to freeze, making them unyielding. One remedy is to warm your car, either by placing it in a garage or using a portable heater. Also, using a de-icer spray, available at most automotive stores, can prove beneficial for the brake parts.

5. Check Hydraulic System

Many modern Jeeps use a hydraulic system for their brakes. Ensure the brake fluid is at the recommended level. Additionally, it’s wise to inspect for any potential leaks or damaged lines, repairing them as necessary.

Standard Questions

How Often Should I Check My Parking Brake System?

It’s advisable to inspect your parking brake system during your regular vehicle maintenance checks. For an optimal functioning vehicle, particularly for those who reside in regions with extreme temperatures or those who use their vehicles extensively, a biannual check would be prudent.

Can I Drive With a Stuck Parking Brake?

No, driving with a stuck parking brake is not recommended. Not only can it cause significant damage to the brake system and lead to increased repair costs, but it can also compromise the safety of the vehicle, posing a risk to both the driver and fellow commuters.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Parking Brake?

The cost of repairing a parking brake can vary based on the severity of the issue and the model of the vehicle. Minor adjustments might be relatively inexpensive, while more comprehensive repairs, especially in advanced parking brake systems, can reach several hundred dollars.

How Do You Diagnose a Stuck Brake?

Diagnosing a stuck brake often begins with a visual inspection to check for any obvious damage or wear. One might also listen for unusual noises when engaging or disengaging the brake. Moreover, if the vehicle seems resistant to movement despite adequate engine power, it’s a potential sign. 

Do You Put the Handbrake First or Gear First?

Ah, the age-old debate that has divided drivers for years! Typically, it’s recommended to engage the handbrake first, followed by placing the vehicle in gear. This method ensures that the primary weight of the vehicle is supported by the handbrake and not just the gear, providing added security, especially on inclines.

Is It OK to Park Without a Parking Brake?

While it might be possible, especially on level terrains, it’s always safer to engage the parking brake. It serves as a secondary safety measure, ensuring that the vehicle remains stationary, regardless of any accidental nudges or external forces.

Can You Use Parking Brake if Brakes Fail?

In emergency situations where the primary brake system fails, the parking brake can indeed act as a backup. However, one should exercise caution, as engaging the parking brake at high speeds might lead to skidding. It’s vital to pull it slowly and steadily.

End Notes

There you have it – an all-encompassing guide to the Jeep Cherokee’s parking brake conundrum. Remember, vehicles, much like humans, have their good and bad days. While the occasional hiccup is inevitable, regular maintenance and a keen ear can make all the difference.