UK-POLOS.NET - THE VW Polo Forum

Parked on a hill the other day, usually park in gear but went for the handbrake this time. Pulled it up (finger on the button) and the car started to roll back.
Which is quite annoying since I rarely use the handbrake. So how do I go about tightening it as I've heard it's £80 for vw to tighten it also I have an arm rest if that makes a difference.

How far does the handbrake travel before it bites and holds the car?

One thing to remember when parking on hills is to depress the brake pedal fully and then apply the handbrake. I know it doesn't sound nice but you shouldn't press the button on the handbrake when pulling it up as it can cause it to not 'latch' properly.

pulled it right up must've been about 5 or 6 notches and it still started to roll and I hate that haha just from being taught differently

When last were the brakes cleaned up, I'm asking that as it seems that brake cleaning/greasing is not now included in servicing! The root cause of your problem could be sticking/partially seized rear brakes, especially if you have drum brakes on the rear, tightening the brake cable will not achieve much - just mean that the hand brake can not be pulled up as high, though actual handbrake performance will be as poor as it was.

By the way, I also try to ease the latch off (button in) when I am applying the handbrake!

Adjusting handbrake...in addition to the tips mentioned above.

I have calipers on the back and the brakes were fully clean not long ago when i was respraying them

Thanks for the help everyone!!