Avensis Verso D4D 2005 handbrake problem

[ellie2761]

My handbrake was inefficient, worked forwards but not backwards so I had new brakes (OEM) fitted.

The near side rear has had even worse problems since. If I pull the handbrake on it does not work backwards yet it does forwards, when it has been pulled on and I next go back to it the brake sticks on and gives an big thud as I drive off. They have been swapped around, put back, adjusted - but still get the same problem.

Anyone any ideas? Anyone had handbrake problems before?

Another verso in the family with all genuine parts suffers the same problem, works fine forwards but very inefficient backwards (2002 model). I replaced the shoes thinking this would solve this problem but it is now worse than it was when I started.

[Konrad C]

A few ideas which may help.

First I would look at the adjusters, clips and springs, making sure they are clean and not too rusty, and not bent or distorted. Use brake cleaner.

Also check the mounting points on the backing plate. When the brakes are assembled, check that springs are mounted correctly and the shoes move freely. Add copper grease on the backing plate contact point, but not on the shoe faces obviously. 

The drum face should be round, so the brakes are have an even contact all the round. 

Check the adjustment at the handbrake side. There are separate adjusters for left and right.

The cable may be sticking, rusty or frayed. Does it move easily?

Hopefully you can find the problem. 

[ellie2761]

Thank you for your tips, I may just have to buy a new set of cables. I cannot find anyone other than Toyota that can supply them and ... as is the usual case ... they are expensive.

[alan333]

Great info there from Konrad.  Check your cables move freely - if they do then fitting new ones won't make any difference.  You could try bedding your new shoes in by applying the handbrake while moving, in short sharp bursts.  Obviously only do this if you're confident, and road conditions are all good.  If you can feel a bit of a judder with the handbrake on it could mean one (or both) of your drums are warped.

[ellie2761]

Hi Alan,

Thank you for your response.

We tried all of Konrad's suggestions prior posting the message, but it was still a very helpful list.

I did try bedding them in exactly as you suggested as the near side was squealing to begin with so pulling it on in short bursts stopped it (there was no juddering). My son looks after my car, so he had it back on the ramp to look at it (again) and he cant fathom it,  whilst the cable is worn I am sure it was free at both sides and I dont think there was anything wrong with the drums (I'll ask my son to clarify both of these things though). When I park up, If I use the handbrake the near side rear sticks on and then when I set off again it frees itself with a big thud. I have stopped using the brake now and leave the car in gear but its coming up for MOT soon and I'm starting to get worried!

[Konrad C]

I wonder if the springs have weakened due to age and condition. They should be pulling the shoes back when the handbrake is released. 

Get assistance if you have not done so already, and with the brakes disassembled, get the assistant to operate the handbrake, whilst you are holding the drum end to feel for roughness and check for delay. This could indicate the cable is frayed within the out cable.

There is a dual adjustment near the handbrake end. You may need to add a bit of slacken the side that is slightly binding.

The most important thing is the make sure everything is clean, contact grease on the backing plate, where the shoes are in contact, and as Alan mentioned the drums are clean, within wear limits and not warped or oval. The last point may be the major factor.

Hope you solve the problem.

[ellie2761]

Thanks Konrad,

My son had swapped the drums round to see if they were the problem, even doing this the problem remained the same, the drums are ok. I will send him this thread and see if it shines any further light for him. Thanks for helping.