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Acura TSX: How to Adjust Parking Brake

The parking brake may be super hard to pull if you've recently changed your rear brake pads. Adjusting your parking brake is very easy.

By Jeffrey Smith - May 11, 2016

This article applies to the Acura TSX (2004-2014).

The parking brake on your Acura should rarely need adjusting. This is likely why there is little information to be found on how to do this. Fortunately for you, this is very easy DIY job that you can do in just a couple of hours in your own garage. Don't let the job length scare you either. You will just want to take your time removing the center console, because plastic can break rather easily. Just a couple of tools is all that is needed and you'll soon be on your way. Don't be fooled into thinking you have to take it to a pro to part ways with your hard earned money. You can do this on your own, but if the idea of tearing out your console is too much to take, then just be sure you find a pro that knows these cars and has the experience to do it right. Shop around for a good estimate as well. Don't think that you have to pay a lot to get a better job. This is simple and straightforward, so there should be no surprises that call for additional work. With that said, let's get busy.

Acura TSX: How to Repair/Adjust Parking Brake

Materials Needed

  • Small flat head screwdriver or other prying tool
  • Box wrench or Crescent wrench

Step 1 – Remove the center console

The parking brake adjusting screw is locate underneath the center console and there is no other way to get to it.

  • Use a small flat head screwdriver to gently pry up the trim strip that runs alongside the console.
  • Pull the center console straight up and off.
  • ACURA TL TSX PARKING BRAKE ADJUST HOW TO
    Figure 1. Remove console trim.
  • ACURA TL TSX PARKING BRAKE ADJUST HOW TO
    Figure 2. Lift up and out the center console.

Step 2 – Tighten (or loosen) the parking brake adjustment nut

The nut is easily seen and reached from above through the console that you just removed. Use a box wrench, pliers or Crescent wrench to turn the nut to tighten or loosen the parking brake. Once you have made the adjustment, test the parking brake before buttoning her back up. Replace the console and trim strips and you're all set.

ACURA TL TSX PARKING BRAKE ADJUST HOW TO
Figure 3. Turn this nut to adjust your parking or emergency brake.

Featured Videos: Acura TL/TSX Parking Brake Adjustment

  • Center Console Removal

  • Parking Brake Adjustment

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