How to Use the Handbrake When the Automatic Transmission Brakes Fail?
1 Answers
When you find that the vehicle's brakes have failed, first release the accelerator pedal and shift the gear to manual mode, then downshift from high gear to low gear. Automatic transmission vehicles generally do not have as noticeable braking effects as manual transmission vehicles when downshifting. Some models may even prohibit downshifting to protect the transmission. Therefore, you should downshift one gear at a time while using the handbrake to reduce speed before further downshifting. When pulling the handbrake, hold the release button and pull it intermittently, avoiding pulling it all the way at once. Below are the methods to handle brake failure while driving: 1. Identify the problem and slow down in time: It is crucial to develop good driving habits. Even when driving on flat roads, pay attention to the braking condition. Once you notice that the braking distance has increased or the brakes are not working properly, pull over or slow down immediately instead of continuing to drive at high speed. Vehicles on highways should stop in the emergency lane and call for assistance. 2. Use the handbrake wisely to control the vehicle: Before encountering continuous downhill or steep downhill sections, it is advisable to lightly tap the brakes to check their functionality. If the brakes fail, try using the handbrake to stop the car. When pulling the handbrake, avoid yanking it all the way or too quickly, as this may damage the handbrake or cause it to fail. Instead, apply gradual force and pull it slowly to the end. 3. Downshift appropriately to control speed: If the handbrake is slow to reduce speed or fails, promptly attempt to use forced downshifting (commonly known as "gear grabbing") to slow the vehicle with a lower gear. Once the speed decreases, combine it with the handbrake to bring the car to a gradual stop.
