How to Tighten the Parking Brake Cable in a 1998 Nissan 200SX

Proper adjustment of the parking brake cable is essential to the safety of the 1998 Nissan 200 SX, whether equipped with a manual or automatic transmission. If the cable is too loose, there may not be adequate force on the brakes to keep the vehicle from rolling, when it is parked on a sloping surface. A cable that is too tight can cause the brakes to drag, resulting in excessive wear of the pads or shoes.

• 1

  Open the hood. Remove the battery cable from the negative terminal first, and remove the battery cable from the positive terminal using pliers. Wait 10 minutes for the airbag backup capacitor to discharge.

• 2

  Pull the parking brake on. Remove the four screws on the side of the center console that are located at the front and rear with a Phillips screwdriver. Pry off the console cover, using a flat-bladed screwdriver. Remove the two screws on the top of the console, using a Phillips screwdriver. Unscrew the shift knob with your hand, and remove it. Lift the console up and over the shift lever. Remove the screws and any electrical connectors attached to the console, and move it out of your way.

• 3

  Turn the parking brake cable adjustment nut clockwise, using an open-ended wrench to obtain the proper tension on the parking brake cable. The proper adjustment is when there are seven to eight clicks, if your vehicle has rear drum brakes, and eight to nine clicks if you have rear disc brakes, when the brake is applied. Apply the brake, count the clicks, and turn the adjustment nut. Repeat until the correct tension is obtained.

• 4

  With the parking brake on, reinstall the center console, reversing the removal procedure. Connect the battery cables to the battery, positive first. Close the hood.