Tools Needed:
1. Jack and jack stands
2. Wheel chocks
3. Socket set
4. Screwdriver
5. Pliers or vice grips
6. Adjustable wrench
7. Brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4, as specified in the vehicle's manual)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the car:
- Engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels, but do not remove them completely.
- Place wheel chocks in front of the front wheels and behind the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Jack up the rear of the vehicle using the jack and place jack stands under the designated lift points to support it securely.
2. Remove the wheels:
- Remove the lug nuts and lift off the rear wheels.
- Place the wheels aside safely.
3. Locate the brake adjuster:
- Behind each rear wheel, you'll find a rubber or plastic plug covering the brake adjuster. This adjuster is typically marked with a "P" or "parking" symbol.
- Remove the cover by gently prying it off with the screwdriver or pliers.
4. Adjust the brake shoes:
- Use the adjustable wrench to turn the adjuster screw. Turn the screw clockwise to retract the brake shoes and allow more space between the brake shoes and the brake drum. Continue turning until you feel a slight drag or resistance when you spin the brake drum with your hand.
- Tighten the adjuster screw backcounterclockwise just enough that you can still spin the brake drum freely, but there's no free play or clicking noise.
5. Test the brakes:
- Reattach the wheels and lower the vehicle back down using the jack.
- Take your Cinquecento for a test drive and apply the brakes gently. The rear brakes should engage smoothly without any grinding or excessive noise.
6. Inspect and correct:
- During the test drive, pay attention to the pedal feel and braking performance. Make sure the pedal is firm and the braking is balanced between the front and rear brakes.
- If necessary, repeat steps 3 and 4 to fine-tune the rear brake adjustment.
7. Replenish brake fluid:
- Check the brake fluid reservoir level and replenish it if needed with the correct brake fluid as specified in the vehicle's manual.
8. Finalize and test again:
- Replace the rubber or plastic covers on the brake adjusters.
- Lower the vehicle completely and test the brakes once more.
Note: If the rear brakes still need adjustment after following these steps or there are any concerns about brake performance, it's advisable to consult with a qualified mechanic for further inspection and adjustment.
