How to Use the Handbrake of a Motor Vehicle?
2 Answers
The correct method to use the handbrake of a motor vehicle is as follows: 1. Pay attention to the force: When pulling the handbrake, do not yank it abruptly, as this will damage the handbrake over time. The correct approach is to pull the handbrake gently and smoothly, ensuring you hear the distinct clicking sound of the handbrake engaging. 2. A small tip: When pulling the handbrake, the button on the handbrake head will move back and forth, with a spring inside exerting force. To prolong the lifespan of the spring and the button, press the button with the pad of your thumb before pulling the handbrake. 3. Optimal working point: When testing the handbrake's holding power on the same slope, there is no difference in the effectiveness between pulling the handbrake 100% and 70%. Moreover, frequently pulling the handbrake to its maximum height will shorten the lifespan of the handbrake cable. Therefore, the optimal working point for the handbrake is pulling it 70% of the way.
As a safety-conscious everyday driver, I strictly use the parking brake every time I park: first holding the car steady with the foot brake until it comes to a complete stop, then pulling up the handbrake lever firmly with my right hand until I hear the click indicating it's locked, before releasing the foot brake. This process applies whether on flat ground or slopes—don’t treat it only as hill-start assist; using it on level ground also prevents accidental rolling. When starting, reverse the steps: press the foot brake first, then release the handbrake before moving off. I make it a point to regularly check the handbrake’s effectiveness—for example, after fully engaging it in a parking lot, I try pushing the car lightly; if there’s slight movement, I visit the repair shop to tighten the cable. For maintenance, since the handbrake cable can rust from prolonged disuse, I spray lubricant every six months to prevent seizing. Forming this habit takes mere seconds but prevents rollaway accidents, proving especially reliable in rain or snow.
