Do You Need to Press the Button When Pulling Up the Handbrake?
2 Answers
When pulling up the handbrake, you generally don't need to press the handbrake button. Here are some precautions for using the handbrake: 1. Avoid pulling the handbrake to 100%: The purpose of the handbrake is to stabilize the vehicle after it has stopped, preventing accidents caused by rolling. However, pulling the handbrake to its maximum isn't the best practice; pulling it to about 70%-80% is sufficient. This is because pulling the handbrake too tightly can shorten the lifespan of the handbrake cable. 2. Never apply the handbrake directly at high speeds: It is extremely dangerous to apply the handbrake directly while driving at high speeds. Since the handbrake typically acts on the rear wheels, applying it suddenly can cause one of the rear wheels to lock up, leading to skidding or even a rollover.
I've been driving for almost twenty years and have experience with various car models. The design of traditional handbrakes varies by vehicle. In most cars, you need to press the button while pulling up the handbrake; otherwise, it won't budge. The principle is this: without pressing the button, the internal ratchet locks the gear to prevent the handbrake from sliding. Pressing the button temporarily disengages the ratchet, allowing you to pull it. However, some older models, like trucks from the 1990s, can lock the handbrake without pressing the button. The safest method is to test it when you get in the car: gently pull the handbrake lever first. If it doesn't move at all, then press the button. When releasing the handbrake, you almost always need to press the button; otherwise, it won't go down. Never use brute force to pull it—I've seen people break the latch, costing hundreds in repairs.
