Parking Brake Actuator

Remove and replace the parking brake actuator assembly on a 2008 Dodge Viper, including removal of rear interior trim panels and actuator mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Parking brake actuator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel retaining clips (as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and place wheel chocks at front wheels.
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from ignition.
3. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent accidental actuator activation.
4. Allow interior to cool if vehicle has been in sun (plastic trim can be brittle when hot).
5. Release parking brake lever to full-down position before beginning work.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Center Console Rear Trim Panel
   Using plastic pry tools, carefully release the rear center console trim panel that covers the area behind the seats. Start at the bottom edges and work around the perimeter. Check for Torx fasteners along the bottom or sides of the panel before prying. Remove any fasteners found, then lift the panel up and away from the console structure.
2. 2

   Access Parking Brake Actuator
   With the rear trim removed, locate the parking brake actuator assembly mounted to the center tunnel structure. The actuator is a black rectangular unit with the parking brake cables attached to the rear and electrical connector on the side. Note the cable routing and actuator orientation for reassembly.
3. 3

   Disconnect Electrical Connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the side of the parking brake actuator. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight away from the actuator body. If connector is stiff, gently rock it side-to-side while pulling.
4. 4

   Release Parking Brake Cables
   At the rear of the actuator, locate where the two parking brake cables attach to the actuator mechanism. Each cable has a barrel-end fitting that seats in a clevis or bracket. Compress or spread the cable retaining clips (depending on design) and slide each cable barrel end out of its mounting position. Note which cable goes to which position (driver vs passenger side).
5. 5

   Remove Actuator Mounting Fasteners
   Locate the 3 mounting fasteners securing the parking brake actuator to the center tunnel bracket. These are typically Torx fasteners accessed from the top and sides of the actuator. Remove all 3 fasteners completely and retain for reinstallation.
   ⚠Support the actuator as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from dropping and damaging cables or interior components.
6. 6

   Remove Actuator Assembly
   With all fasteners removed and cables disconnected, carefully lift the parking brake actuator assembly up and out of the center console area. Maneuver it to clear any surrounding trim or structure. Inspect the mounting location for debris or damage.
7. 7

   Prepare New Actuator
   Unpack the new parking brake actuator and verify it matches the original unit. Ensure the actuator is in the released (retracted) position before installation. Check that the cable attachment points move freely and that no shipping locks or tie-wraps restrict movement.
8. 8

   Install New Actuator
   Position the new parking brake actuator into the mounting location on the center tunnel. Align the mounting holes with the bracket. Start all 3 mounting fasteners by hand to ensure proper thread engagement before tightening any.
9. 9

   Tighten Actuator Mounting Fasteners
   Tighten the 3 actuator mounting fasteners in a cross pattern to ensure even seating. Tighten firmly but do not overtighten (typical spec for these Torx fasteners is 80-100 inch-pounds). Verify the actuator sits flush against the mounting bracket.
10. 10

    Reconnect Parking Brake Cables
    Attach each parking brake cable to the actuator in the same positions noted during removal. Insert the cable barrel ends into their mounting positions and ensure the retaining clips fully engage. Tug on each cable to verify secure attachment. Ensure cables are not twisted or kinked.
11. 11

    Reconnect Electrical Connector
    Plug the electrical connector into the parking brake actuator until it clicks into place. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
12. 12

    Reinstall Center Console Trim
    Position the rear center console trim panel back into place, aligning any locating tabs with their slots. Press firmly around the perimeter to seat any push-pin clips. If Torx fasteners were removed in step 1, reinstall them and tighten securely. Verify all edges are flush and properly seated.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Ensure all trim panels are properly seated with no gaps or misalignment.
3. Verify no tools or hardware were left in the center console area.

Verification

• With the vehicle still chocked and on level ground, turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start engine).
• Pull the parking brake lever to the fully applied position. Listen for the actuator motor operating and feel for firm resistance at full application.
• Release the parking brake lever completely. Verify it returns to the down position and the brake warning light (if equipped) extinguishes.
• Attempt to push the vehicle by hand with parking brake applied to verify the rear wheels are locked.
• Release parking brake and verify rear wheels rotate freely.
• Test the parking brake on an incline if possible: apply parking brake, place transmission in neutral, and verify the vehicle remains stationary.
• Check for any unusual noises or incomplete operation during apply/release cycles.

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