How to Engage and Disengage the Handbrake?
2 Answers
Pulling the handbrake upward engages it, while pushing it downward disengages it. For an electronic handbrake, pressing upward means engaging the handbrake, and pressing downward means releasing it. The electronic handbrake primarily operates through an electronic control unit that manages the motors integrated into the left and right brake calipers. It generates mechanical clamping force by driving the brake caliper pistons to move, thereby completing the parking function. Typically, the electronic handbrake automatically activates after stopping the car and shifting into park. When pressing the brake pedal and simultaneously pulling the electronic handbrake, the dashboard will display the electronic handbrake indicator light. While driving, it's important to ensure the handbrake is disengaged. Engaging the handbrake while driving can lead to accelerated wear of the brake discs, hardening of the brake pads due to overheating, reduced performance of the handbrake cable, and even a burning smell.
When driving normally, distinguishing between engaging and releasing the handbrake is actually quite straightforward. Pulling the handbrake lever upward means 'on' – the brake is activated, the vehicle is immobilized, and a small red warning light illuminates on the dashboard. To move the car, you must lower the lever or press the release button to disengage the handbrake, at which point the light turns off and the car can drive freely. A common mistake beginners make is forgetting to release the handbrake before starting, leading to brake pad wear or difficulty moving – I once nearly hit a wall in a parking lot because I didn’t disengage it properly. Checking is simple: pull it tight after parking, and verify the light is off before driving. Regular maintenance of the handbrake system, such as inspecting cables for stiffness or wear, is also crucial.
