Handbrake Problem Vectra B

Rowley Birkin QC

When I engage the handbrake on my car, 98 Opel Vectra, it feels like that only the rear drivers side wheel locks up, and there is a heavy clunking noise. The car remains still, i.e. the handbrake is serving its purpose , but it just doesn't seem right to me.

The car has discs all around and the brakes are nearly due to be serviced, pads and new fluid, but just wondering if you have any opinions.

Also while I'm at it the timing belt and WP were done at 80,000 miles, she is currently at 116,000. when should I be looking at getting it done again? was thinking maybe around the 118-120 mark. Its a 1.6 16v petrol.

Cheers lads and ladettes.

(I get very bored on sundays and these things start annoying me)

C.D.

Get her up on axle stands, put the handbrake on and see if the rear wheels turn (by hand). Axle stands should be no more than €30 at your local motorshop. Remember to chock your front wheels.

Alternatively, get your local garage to do it.

If only one brake is working I wouldn't drive your car, it could be quite dangerous if you needed to perfom emergency braking.

ninty9er

The older vectra had a handbrake recall, maybe it's a similar issue

Anan1

C.D. wrote:

If only one brake is working I wouldn't drive your car, it could be quite dangerous if you needed to perfom emergency braking.

The handbrake is a completely separate system from the footbrake.