1998 V70 XC with 99,000 miles.

When we use the emergency brake (while parked, for example) and then release it to leave, it seems that we get the sound of a squeaking/dragging brake. Does the e-brake mechanism tend to stick and drag its brake shoes?

If we use the e-brake often, the squeaking is very noticeable. If we do NOT use the e-brake for a few days, the problem seems to disappear.

I have never looked at the emergency brake mechanism, but my understanding is that the system is entirely separate from the regular rear brakes. Can the release mechanism just be frozen or something similar?

Is this a common problem? Is there a permanent fix?

Thanks in advance.

JP...the longer life history on the emergency brake system is that the cables eventually "seize up" in there shrouds and no bit of greasing will help (I tried on my mine when I had it). You can try what others indicate but if that doesn't work your cables will eventually sieze up. My brother had his done...cost about $500 for the complete job!

Your parking brakes are the old fashion drum brakes inside the rear rotors. They hav a tendancy to rust and corrode. The shoes also have a bad habit of falling of their guides and making noises, like you describe. Mine just stick when I release the cable and release when I go forward.
The next time you need rear rotors, check the brake shoes for wear and loose parts, and grease the moving parts with brake grease to keep the moisture off.

Klaus
--
98 V70Rawd(108Kmi), 95 854T(88K mi), 75 164E(173K mi)

Your brake pads have sensors on them to alert you when the pads are worn. Maybe your e-brake is not disengaugeing all the way. This would be may guess.