How High Should the Handbrake Be Pulled?
5 Answers
The handbrake should not be pulled too high. When applying the handbrake, pulling it to about 70% of its maximum height is sufficient. Pulling it fully or to 70% achieves the same braking effect. Specific considerations are as follows: Do not pull the handbrake too high: When using the handbrake, pulling it to 70% of its height is enough. Fully engaging the handbrake and pulling it to 70% provide the same braking effect. Additionally, consistently pulling the handbrake to its maximum can reduce the cable's ability to retract, shortening the handbrake's lifespan. Pull the handbrake gently: When engaging the handbrake, pull it up slowly and steadily. Avoid yanking it abruptly, as this can easily cause damage. Do not use the handbrake as a substitute for the foot brake: Using the handbrake instead of the foot brake at high speeds can cause the wheels to lock up, leading to skidding. The handbrake cable may also snap under such conditions.
I understand everyone is concerned about how high to pull the handbrake for maximum safety. Generally, pulling it to 5-7 notches is most appropriate, which means hearing the clicking sound 5 to 7 times. This height ensures the brake pads fully contact the wheel hub without overstretching the brake cable. When parking on a slope, I usually pull an extra notch or two to ensure the tires are completely locked. During testing, remember to release the foot brake after pulling the handbrake and observe if the car body shakes. Never pull it beyond 10 notches—I once pulled it too high, causing poor rebound, and the next day I forgot to release the handbrake while driving, resulting in the brake pads smoking. Now, every time I park, I stop pulling once the handbrake light on the dashboard comes on.
As an experienced driver, I rely on feel to judge. When pulling the handbrake, lift it up steadily until you feel significant resistance, then stop—that's when the brake pads engage properly. On level ground, hearing 4-5 clicks is sufficient, while steep slopes require about 7 clicks. Here's a practical tip: After setting the handbrake, shift to Neutral (N) and release the foot brake—if the car doesn't move, the height is correct. Once, I saw a neighbor yank the lever all the way up, and the handbrake cable snapped within three months. Special reminder: Don't pull it too high in winter, as frozen snowmelt can cause the brake to lock up.
The handbrake height varies by vehicle. For most sedans, pulling it to 70% of its travel is sufficient, roughly when the dashboard indicator light comes on. Electronic parking brakes adjust the force automatically, while for traditional handbrakes, it's advised to judge by sound: 4-6 clicks indicate the brake is engaged. Regular testing is also crucial. I specifically test on slopes in my garage—parking on a 15-degree incline, applying the handbrake, then stepping out to observe; only when there's no rolling at all can I be assured. Over-pulling can keep the return spring under prolonged pressure, leading to premature aging.
I believe the optimal handbrake height is when the rear tires just lock after pulling. When operating, first press the foot brake, then smoothly pull up the lever. On flat ground, 5 notches are sufficient, while steep slopes require 7 or more. You can test it like this: engage the handbrake firmly, shift to neutral, release the foot brake, and gently push the car—if it doesn't budge, it's properly set. Remember not to follow my example of treating the lever like gym equipment and yanking it hard—last time, the mechanic said my lever bracket was deformed. If parking for more than three days, it's best to release the handbrake to prevent the brake pads from sticking.
