How do I adjust the E-brake?

2009 TOYOTA MATRIX
160,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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SLIMJAWB
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Hi Experts, I'm writing for advice on adjusting a loose e-brake. I've adjusted it in the cabin below the lever and it's still loose. From what I see online my next step is to remove the rear tires and adjust it there (Providing my cable isn't snapped, which I have yet to verify).

My question is, I see two different types of adjustment online. One is to rotate a little star wheel that is located behind the disk and the other is to adjust behind the caliper. Can anyone tell me what the method is for my specific car listed above? My rear brakes use calipers, not sure if this is relevant but I'm trying to provide as much info as possible. Thanks in advance!
Aug 10, 2022 at 6:11 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

On this model vehicle, you will need to remove the brake caliper and disc rotor to access the adjuster. It is a star-shaped adjuster.

I attached an exploded view of the component below.

If you are not getting any braking and you have the inside adjuster fully set, you may have a broken cable. So, check that.

Also, if the cable is good, turn back the interior adjuster so you can fine-tune it once the adjustment is made at the wheel.

When you remove the brake disc rotor, make sure to clean the components inside with brake cleaner, and inspect the brake shoes to make sure they are good.

Let me know what you find or if I can help.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Aug 10, 2022 at 11:49 AM
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SLIMJAWB
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Hi Joe, thanks for the response. I'm a little intimidated by this job as I've only recently started doing my own mechanics on my car so I'm still researching the job. I've never taken apart my brakes before so I'm trying to make sure I can get everything back together. Does this video show what I can expect to find in my 09 Matrix?

https://youtu.be/pwaOUjjJEyI

I really appreciate the help!
Aug 14, 2022 at 5:27 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

The video you attached shows it being done on drum brakes and not disc.


Take a look through this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/parking-brake-shoe-replacement

Also, based on my manual, this model only came with rear disc brakes. When you look through the rear wheel, you should see the disc rotor. It will look much like the front brakes. I attached a pic of a brake rotor below. Let me know if that is what you see.

Also, the link I attached explains how to remove the brake caliper, pads, and all that is needed.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Aug 14, 2022 at 7:26 PM
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SLIMJAWB
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Ah, yeah, that's exactly what I see.
Thanks Joe, you're the king! I hope to get the brake adjusted this week or weekend at the latest.
Aug 15, 2022 at 6:27 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
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Hi,

You are very welcome. Let me know how things turn out for you or if I can help in any way.

Just an FYI, once you have the caliper and caliper mount removed, the rotor may give you a hard time removing it. Just take your time and work it back and forth.

Take care,

Joe
Aug 15, 2022 at 6:56 PM