E-Brake light 2000 tacoma

[rsdill2]

i drive a 2000 toyota tacoma and the e-brake light stays on. the brake fluid is full and if i physically push the e-brake in as far as it goes, the light goes off so as far as i can tell it's on because the brake lever will not go all the way in - it's not engaged at all - just won't push all the way in. is there a way for me to tighten the brake? how can i fix this?

[Hi Volt]

You most likely have some cable bind happening in the cable sleeve that extends from the firewall down towards the frame. Sometimes you can just apply some oil ( a dozen drops or so, no need to flood it ) in the top of the sleeve and it will flow down the cable over a couple of hours. Any light oil will do fine such as 3 in 1 oil. You can also use WD40 although it doesn't last as long. Moving the brake lever a few times after lubing will also help. Also follow the cable along the frame to each lever point and check that they pivot freely, oil them if necessary.

This is the fix I have used on earlier model 4x4's, the E-brake system is the same style.

[seamatt]

I had the same problem with my 2001...I thought the e-brake wasn't rubbing, cause it wasn't noticeable, but it actually was rubbing a bit. A minor part of the e-brake had to be replaced...can't remember what, I'll find out and reply...but you might want to put the truck up on a lift and make sure the rear wheels are spinning as freely as they should.