Do You Need to Press the Clutch When Applying the Handbrake?
2 Answers
Applying the handbrake does not require pressing the clutch. The handbrake, also known as the parking brake, functions to provide resistance to the car when parked, preventing it from rolling. The parking brake, whether it's a handbrake or the parking gear in an automatic transmission, locks the drive shaft or rear wheels. Its braking force is much weaker compared to the service brake, just enough to prevent the car from rolling on a slope. Parking brakes come in different types, including mechanical systems operated by hand or foot, as well as electronically controlled parking systems, commonly known as electronic parking brakes. An electronic parking brake integrates the temporary braking function during driving with the long-term braking function after parking, and it achieves parking braking through electronic control technology.
I think this is a pretty common issue that many new drivers might find confusing at first. You actually don't need to press the clutch when engaging the handbrake. The handbrake is meant to keep the car stationary after parking, while the clutch is only needed when shifting gears or starting the car. Whether you're parking on flat ground or a slope, you should first bring the car to a complete stop, shift to neutral, and then apply the handbrake. There's no need to specifically press the clutch for this operation. In fact, unnecessary clutch use might even cause the car to jerk slightly, especially with manual transmissions. Back in driving school, I used to shift gears before applying the handbrake until my instructor corrected me - pulling the handbrake directly is simpler and safer. If you're unsure, you can always check your vehicle's manual as there might be minor variations between models, but the basic procedure remains the same. Remember to keep your feet off the pedals after parking to avoid accidental movements - it's actually more worry-free this way. Safety comes first, so don't create unnecessary complications with extra steps.
