Brake cables

Brake cables are key components of the handbrake system, responsible for transferring force from the brake lever to the braking mechanisms in the vehicle's rear wheels. Their smooth operation is essential for the handbrake's effectiveness, ensuring safety when stopping and maneuvering on inclines. At Global Parts, you'll find a wide selection of used car parts , including brake cables, ideal for BMW , Audi , Mercedes , Volkswagen , Mini , and more .

What are brake cables and how do they work in practice?

A brake cable (often referred to in the plural as brake cables ) is a mechanical component made of a multi-strand steel core, encased in protective armor. Its function is to transfer mechanical force, without the use of hydraulics, directly from the parking brake lever to the rear axle braking mechanism. Most passenger cars use one main cable and two rear cables, one for each wheel. The typical brake cable length in compact and D-segment cars is between 1200 and 2200 mm, depending on the chassis design and wheelbase.

What are the functions of brake cables ?

Brake cables play an important role in the operation of the handbrake:

• Power Transfer – Connects the handbrake lever to the brake mechanisms, allowing the brake to be applied effectively.
• Wheel Locking – Keeps the vehicle in place when stationary, even on slopes.
• Maneuvering support – Enables precise vehicle control when starting uphill.

Brake cables and the type of braking system – significant design differences

The type and operation of the brake cable depends on the type of rear brake system. In vehicles with drum brakes, the cable acts directly on the brake caliper, while in vehicles with disc brakes, it most often works with a separate hand mechanism integrated with the caliper or with a hand drum inside the disc. For example, many BMW 3 Series (E90/E91) and Volkswagen Passat B6 models use separate cables for each side, which affects their length, routing, and compatibility with other suspension components.

Why is it worth taking care of your brake cables ?

Worn or damaged brake cables can reduce the effectiveness of the parking brake and increase the risk of uncontrolled vehicle movement. Typical symptoms include:

• Loose handbrake lever – May indicate excessive stretch or cable breakage.
• Ineffective braking – No response from the wheels when the handbrake is applied.
• Difficulty engaging the brake – Resistance when using the lever may be due to corrosion or damage to the cable. If you need a replacement, you'll find the right used car parts at Global Parts that will restore full functionality of your braking system.

Symptoms and performance parameters – what affects the effectiveness of a brake cable?

Brake cable effectiveness is influenced by factors such as internal friction, cable housing routing, and rear axle geometry. In a properly functioning system, full engagement of the handbrake typically occurs after 5–8 detents of the lever . It's also worth considering the cable's compatibility with the tension adjusters and equalization mechanism, which is responsible for evenly distributing force to both rear wheels.

How to choose the right brake cables ?

When choosing brake lines, there are several key aspects to consider:

• Vehicle-specific fit – Every braking system has its own specific technical requirements. At Global Parts , you'll find brake lines perfectly suited to BMW , Audi , Mercedes , Volkswagen , Mini , and more .
• Technical condition – Used cables should be free from abrasion, mechanical damage and corrosion.
• Cable Length – Make sure the cables you choose match the design and dimensions of your vehicle.

Compatibility and fit – what to look for when choosing?

Selecting the right brake line is primarily based on the body style, rear suspension, and brake type . Within a single car model, there may be different line variants – for example, different ones for a station wagon, sedan, or AWD version. Therefore, VIN matching is often used when selecting a line, ensuring full compatibility with the vehicle's factory specifications and other braking system components.

Why choose used brake cables ?

Used car parts , such as used brake cables , is an economical solution that allows you to save money while maintaining high quality. By choosing used braking system components, you gain:

• Lower costs – Used lines are much cheaper than new ones, but offer just as high quality.
• Ecology – Recycling parts supports environmental protection and reduces waste.
• A wide range – In our store you will find used brake lines for the most popular car brands.

Brake cables as a system element – connections with other parts

The brake cable interfaces directly with components such as the handbrake lever, adjuster, rear calipers, parking brake shoes, and springs . This makes it an important reference point when building a cohesive braking system. Cable replacement or adjustment often involves other components, facilitating logical internal linking within the brake component category.

How to take care of brake cables ?

To ensure that your brake cables function reliably for a long time, it is important to follow a few rules:

• Regular inspections – Check the condition of the cables during periodic technical inspections of the braking system.
• Avoid overloading the handbrake – Pulling too hard can lead to excessive cable stretching.
• Protect cables from corrosion – Whenever possible, protect components from moisture and road salt. If you need a replacement, Global Parts has the right used car parts to ensure the effectiveness and durability of your handbrake.

Comparison table – types and applications of brake cables

Brake cable type	Application	Characteristic
Main link	Lever connection with the equalization mechanism	One piece, central guidance
Rear links	Direct impact on wheels	Two links – left and right side
Hand drum disc links	Disc-drum systems	Precise length adjustment

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about brake cables

Question	Answer
What are brake cables?	Brake cables are the mechanical components of the handbrake system that transfer force from the brake lever to the rear wheels of the vehicle.
What is the difference between a brake cable and a brake hose?	The brake cable operates mechanically, while the brake hose transmits the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid.
How many brake lines does a car have?	Most often, there are three cables: one main and two rear – one for each wheel.
Are the brake cables different for the left and right sides?	Yes, in most models the rear cables differ in length and attachment method.
Does the brake cable fit all engine versions?	The fit depends mainly on the body and brake type, not the engine itself.
How to choose brake cables for a specific model?	The most accurate method is a VIN match, which takes into account the vehicle's factory specifications.

Summary: Brake Cables at Global Parts Automotive Store

Brake cables are key components of the braking system, responsible for the effectiveness and reliability of the handbrake. By maintaining their technical condition, you can improve safety while parking and maneuvering. The Global Parts automotive store invites you to browse our wide selection of original used car parts . Whether you're looking for car parts for BMW , Audi , Volkswagen , Mercedes, Mini , and more, you'll find them at competitive prices. We strive to ensure every customer finds the right parts for their car, and if you have any questions or concerns about selecting the right components, we're happy to help! Please contact us – we're here to help! For more information and interesting facts, visit our automotive blog .