Owning an Audi A5 Cabriolet comes with its perks. Sleek design, luxury interiors, and the satisfaction of dropping that soft-top on a beautiful day. But like any vehicle, maintenance is key to keeping it in top condition. One aspect that often goes unnoticed is the handbrake (or parking brake), which can loosen over time, making it less effective. If you’ve noticed that your Audi rolls slightly when parked on an incline, it might be time for an adjustment. The good news? You can do it yourself with a little patience and the right tools.
Signs Your Handbrake Needs Adjustment
Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s important to determine whether you actually need to do it. Here are some telltale signs:
- The handbrake lever pulls up too high – If you’re yanking the lever all the way up before it engages, it’s likely too loose.
- Car rolls slightly when parked – A properly adjusted handbrake should hold your vehicle securely, even on an incline.
- Uneven braking force – If the handbrake feels inconsistent or weak, it might not be applying pressure evenly.
- Brake warning light stays on – This could indicate an issue with the handbrake system itself, though it’s always good to check other potential causes.
If any of these issues sound familiar, adjusting the handbrake might resolve them.
Tools You’ll Need
Gather your tools before starting to make the process smoother:
- A trim removal tool or flathead screwdriver
- A ratchet wrench with a 10mm socket
- A flashlight (to see into tight spaces)
- A T20 Torx bit
Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s get to work!
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Your Audi A5 Cabriolet’s Handbrake
Step 1: Access the Handbrake Adjustment Mechanism
The handbrake adjustment mechanism is located inside the center console, just beneath the armrest. Follow these steps to access it:
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Remove the Rear Ashtray/Storage Tray
Open the center console and locate the rear ashtray or storage tray (depending on your model year). This needs to be removed to expose the adjustment area. -
Unscrew and Lift the Center Console Panel
Using a T20 Torx bit, remove the screws securing the panel covering the handbrake assembly. Once loose, gently lift the panel to reveal the adjustment nuts.
Step 2: Adjust the Handbrake Tension
Now that you have access to the adjustment mechanism, it’s time to fine-tune the tension.
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Locate the Adjustment Nuts
You’ll see two nuts connected to the handbrake cables. These control the tension of the parking brake. -
Tighten or Loosen as Needed
– If your handbrake is too loose, tighten the nuts by turning them clockwise in small increments.
– If it’s too tight, loosen them by turning counterclockwise.
– Check tension by pulling the handbrake lever after each adjustment. Ideally, it should engage fully between 4 to 6 clicks. -
Ensure Even Adjustment on Both Sides
Since the system operates using two cables (one for each rear wheel), both sides should be adjusted evenly for balanced braking.
Step 3: Reassemble Everything
Once you’re happy with the adjustment:
- Replace the Center Console Panel – Secure it back with the screws you removed earlier.
- Reinstall the Storage Tray/Ashtray – Snap it back into place.
- Test the Handbrake – Engage and disengage a few times to make sure it’s functioning correctly.
When to Seek Professional Help
While adjusting the handbrake yourself can save time and money, there are a few scenarios where it’s better to leave it to a professional:
- If the adjustment doesn’t fix the issue, there could be worn brake pads or stretched cables that need replacing.
- If the parking brake engages unevenly, one side might be failing.
- If you’re uncomfortable working with car components, a qualified mechanic can handle it quickly.
Final Thoughts
A properly adjusted handbrake is more than just a convenience. It’s a safety feature. Whether you’re parking on a hill or just ensuring your car stays put in the driveway, it’s worth taking the time to keep it in top shape. If you’ve never done a handbrake adjustment before, don’t stress. With a little patience and the right approach, it’s a straightforward task that can make a real difference.
Got any tips or personal experiences adjusting your Audi A5 Cabriolet’s handbrake? Share them in the comments. I’d love to hear from fellow Audi enthusiasts!
