Do automatic transmission cars need to use the handbrake?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission cars require the use of the handbrake. It is a good driving habit to engage the handbrake in any parking situation, especially when parking on a slope. Properly applying the handbrake can prevent the car from rolling and does not affect the performance of the P (Park) gear. The handbrake must be engaged when parking and turning off the engine. At traffic lights, you can also use the handbrake to relieve foot fatigue. When using a mechanical handbrake, avoid pulling it too tight, as prolonged excessive force can cause the handbrake to become loose or the cable to break. It is best not to park on a slope with the handbrake engaged for extended periods, as this can lead to wear on the handbrake cable. If you need to park on a slope for a long time, you can place a brick under the tire facing the downhill direction after engaging the handbrake to help secure the car and reduce the pressure on the handbrake.
I believe it's still necessary to use the handbrake when driving an automatic transmission car. Although the P (Park) gear can lock the transmission to prevent the car from sliding, relying solely on it isn't very reliable, especially on slopes or uneven roads. With decades of driving experience, I've seen many cases - like in shopping mall parking lots with slight inclines - where cars without handbrakes can creep forward if the P gear lock loosens slightly, potentially causing damage if they hit objects or other vehicles. Using the handbrake adds an extra layer of protection by having your braking system directly grip the wheels for more stability. Make it a habit: after parking, first shift to P gear, then engage the handbrake, and finally turn off the engine. This routine also reduces transmission wear, saving on repair costs long-term. For mountainous cities with many slopes, manual operation is safer - don't be lazy about it.
Automatic transmission vehicles do indeed prevent movement when in the P (Park) position, but using the handbrake is still essential. As a young driver, I've operated newer models with electronic parking brakes, which are convenient and smart—automatically releasing when starting the vehicle and engaging when turning off. However, technical failures or the need for manual intervention can occur. For instance, when parked on a wet, slippery slope in rainy conditions, the P gear lock might not be strong enough, causing the car to slide slightly. In such cases, the mechanical force of the handbrake becomes invaluable. Modern features like auto-hold are only suitable for brief stops; for extended parking, manual engagement is still necessary. Developing the habit of using the handbrake is both safe and straightforward, preventing accidental slides that could harm people or damage the vehicle.
