How to Use the Handbrake in an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
The operation steps for the handbrake in an automatic transmission car are: 1. Stop the car completely and keep the brake pedal pressed; 2. Shift the gear lever forward to the P (Park) position; 3. Pull up the handbrake, turn off the engine, and exit the vehicle. The working principle of the handbrake is to use the friction generated between the brake disc and the brake pads to achieve parking brake control. Automatic transmission means that the driver does not need to manually shift gears; the vehicle will automatically select the appropriate gear based on the driving speed and traffic conditions. There are six gear positions in an automatic transmission car, from top to bottom: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport), and L (Low). The power is transmitted through the gearbox.
When I first learned to drive an automatic car, I found the handbrake quite easy to use. After parking, first make sure the car is completely stopped on level ground or in the parking space, then simply pull up the handbrake lever. For models with an electronic parking brake, just press the button on the center console. Remember, before driving, you must press the brake pedal, confirm there are no warning lights on the dashboard, and then slowly release the handbrake or the electronic button. Don’t start too quickly, otherwise, if the handbrake isn’t fully released, the car will feel like it’s dragging. It’s especially important to use it when parking on slopes to prevent the car from rolling. I’ve also found that regularly checking the tightness of the handbrake is crucial to ensure it works properly. The electronic version is even more convenient—just one-button operation, saving effort and worry. In short, once you get familiar with it, operating it becomes as natural as breathing, and you’ll get the hang of it after a few practices.
