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How to Fix Soft Braking Issues on a Smart

Model: Smart Smart 453 - Years 2014-2022
Part: Brake system

If the brakes feel soft and the handbrake engages high on a Smart, the problem is almost always the rear drum, where the mechanism is poorly adjusted. Therefore, adjust the handbrake cable by lifting the plastic cover under the handbrake lever, unscrewing the cable adjustment nut to relieve tension. The goal is to have 2-3 mm of play in the cable before it engages the shoes. However, the crucial step is inspecting and restoring the rear drums. Remove the wheels and drums, checking and cleaning everything: shoes and springs, and especially the self-adjusting mechanism (the click lever). Lubricate the contact points of the shoes with copper grease (never on the friction surfaces); the upper return spring must have the central coil facing down, and the self-adjusting mechanism must be mounted in the correct position. Reassemble everything, ensuring the handbrake cable is securely attached; between the 3rd and 4th click, the wheels should lock completely; adjust the cable to achieve this. In summary, the problem is almost always resolved by cleaning, lubricating, and reassembling the rear drum brake, then correctly adjusting the handbrake cable.

Posted on 11 May 2026 by ScegliAuto

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