Drove 10+ Kilometers with Handbrake On, Need Repairs?
2 Answers
An inspection is necessary. The consequences of driving with the handbrake engaged are as follows: 1. Reduced braking effectiveness: When driving with the handbrake on, the car's operation continuously pulls on the handbrake's steel cable. Prolonged failure to release the handbrake can stretch the cable, leading to diminished braking performance, and the brake pads may fail due to severe wear. 2. Severe tire wear: If the handbrake is not released, the brake pads will constantly rub against the tires, resulting in significant tire wear, which is one of the potential causes of tire blowouts. 3. Increased carbon buildup in the engine and throttle: Driving with the handbrake on puts the car in a braking state, causing the engine to operate under load. This leads to increased carbon deposits, higher fuel consumption, and, over time, potential engine damage.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I fully understand the dangers of driving with the parking brake engaged. Once, I made the mistake of driving 5-6 kilometers without releasing it, causing the car to smoke and severely wear down the brake pads. Driving over 10 kilometers with it engaged is even worse—the continuous friction builds up heat, potentially thinning or even burning out the brake pads, warping the brake discs due to overheating, and compromising braking performance. This is especially dangerous when going downhill, as it can also lower the boiling point of the brake fluid, leading to brake failure in emergencies. My advice: pull over immediately, let the system cool down, check for any burnt smells or smoke, and test if the brake pedal feels softer. Even if no obvious issues are present, head to a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection—you may need to replace worn brake components. Make it a habit to always release the parking brake before driving to ensure safety.
