Does Pulling the Electronic Handbrake While Driving Cause Damage?
2 Answers
Pulling the electronic handbrake while driving can cause significant damage to the vehicle's braking system. Below is a detailed explanation of the damage caused by engaging the electronic handbrake while driving: 1. At high speeds: The wheels will not lock immediately; instead, a warning sound will be heard, and the system will gradually bring the vehicle to a stop. Pulling the electronic handbrake once at high speeds will trigger a warning to prevent accidental activation, while continuously pulling it will engage emergency braking to stop the vehicle. The friction between the brake discs and brake pads generates heat, affecting the vehicle's braking system. 2. At low speeds: The wheels will not lock immediately; instead, a warning sound will be heard.
I've driven several cars, and pulling the electronic parking brake while driving won't immediately destroy it, but it definitely carries risks. Many vehicles have safety features that only engage at low speeds, but if you yank it hard on the highway, the brake pads and calipers could instantly overload, wearing them down paper-thin. In the long run, such abuse will fatigue and age the small motor components of the electronic parking brake, making replacement expensive and troublesome. I've even seen a friend's car trigger an ABS fault code that cost hundreds to fix. The worst-case scenario is causing skidding or loss of control in an emergency, damaging both the car and people. So don't get curious and fiddle with that button while driving—it's also a good habit to lock the doors and keep the key in your bag. Developing good driving habits is the real solution, otherwise, the repair costs would be better spent on maintenance like AC servicing or air filter replacement.
