Is it harmful to drive 20 kilometers with the handbrake on?

3 Answers
JasonRose
07/29/25 8:56am
Driving 20 kilometers with the handbrake engaged requires an inspection. If the handbrake is not released while driving, the most immediate effects include accelerated wear of the brake discs, hardening of the brake pads due to overheating, and elongation of the handbrake cable. This can increase vehicle wear and fuel consumption, and in severe cases, may lead to accidents. The following are the consequences of driving with the handbrake on: 1. High brake disc temperature: The rear brake discs may overheat, emitting a burnt smell, and in severe cases, turn red, leading to severe thermal fade and reduced braking performance. 2. Brake pad wear: This causes wear on the brake pads, shortening their lifespan. 3. Increased fuel consumption: Fuel consumption significantly rises, with reduced acceleration and a dragging sensation when releasing the throttle.
Was this review help?
6
3
Share
MakaylaLynn
08/12/25 7:37am
Oh, I've encountered this situation several times. Driving with the handbrake on, especially for over 20 kilometers, is really damaging to the car. The brake pads and discs keep rubbing against each other, causing the temperature to skyrocket. At best, it accelerates wear and significantly reduces lifespan; at worst, it can cause disc deformation or burning, leading to strange noises or brake failure. After driving like this, I noticed smoke coming from under the car, which scared me into stopping to check. The brake discs were so hot you could fry an egg on them, and the repairs later cost me several hundred dollars. Fortunately, nothing major happened, but driving safety is not something to take lightly. Next time before starting the car, make sure the handbrake is released—developing this habit will prevent forgetfulness. Additionally, driving like this frequently will also cause fuel consumption to soar, wasting money on gas.
Was this review help?
12
2
Share
Expand All
JaxsonLynn
10/06/25 2:41am
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I think this issue is somewhat serious but not that terrifying. Driving 20 kilometers with the handbrake engaged causes continuous friction between brake components like pads and discs, leading to overheating or even damage. If you didn't smell smoke or hear unusual noises while driving, and the car still moves, the wear must be significant. I suggest parking the car afterward and checking the temperature of the brake components. If they're cool, it might still be usable, but get it inspected ASAP. Prevention involves developing a habit of testing the brakes before starting the car—don't rush to hit the gas. This problem is common among beginners or those in a hurry; more practice can help avoid it. One occasional slip-up might be fine, but frequent mistakes will accelerate component wear and increase repair costs.
Was this review help?
10
1
Share
Expand All
More Forum Discussions

Does the BMW X3 28i have a 360-degree camera?

The BMW X3 28i does not come standard with a 360-degree camera, but it can be optionally installed if needed. Introduction to the 360-degree reversing camera: The 360-degree panoramic reversing camera is a system that allows the driver to view a 360-degree panoramic fusion of the car's surroundings on the vehicle display screen, with an ultra-wide viewing angle and seamless stitching of real-time image information (bird's-eye view). It helps the driver understand the blind spots around the vehicle, making parking more intuitive and safer. It is also known as the panoramic parking camera system or the all-around parking camera system. Introduction to models equipped with a 360-degree reversing camera: Many models now come equipped with a 360-degree reversing camera, such as the BYD Yuan, JAC Refine S3, Geely Vision SUV, and Geely Borui.
15
3
Share

What does EBD mean in Geely cars?

EBD in Geely cars refers to the Electronic Brakeforce Distribution system, with the full English name being Electric Brakeforce Distribution. Functions of EBD: The function of EBD is to instantly calculate the friction values of the four tires caused by different adhesion levels during vehicle braking, and then adjust the braking device to make high-speed adjustments according to the set program during motion, achieving a match between braking force and friction (traction) to ensure vehicle stability and safety. EBD is usually used in conjunction with ABS: In the event of emergency braking causing wheel lock-up, EBD balances the effective ground grip of each wheel before ABS activates, preventing tailspin and lateral movement, and shortening the vehicle's braking distance. EBD is actually an auxiliary function of ABS, which can improve and enhance the effectiveness of ABS.
10
0
Share

What Causes Water Leakage in the Front Passenger Side of a Mercedes-Benz S350?

Mercedes-Benz S350 front passenger side water leakage causes and solutions are as follows: Causes of water leakage in the front passenger side of a Mercedes-Benz S350: Water leakage under the front passenger seat is likely caused by door leakage. If the window regulator has been replaced, it may be due to improper sealing of the door waterproof membrane after the replacement. This happens because the waterproof membrane needs to be peeled off during the regulator replacement process. If the membrane is not properly resealed, heavy rain can cause water to enter the cabin. You can perform the sealing work yourself or replace the waterproof membrane. Solutions for water leakage in the front passenger side of a Mercedes-Benz S350: If you hear noticeable sloshing sounds when opening/closing doors or while driving, this indicates accumulated water inside the door panel. Simply use a thin wire or small screwdriver to unclog the drainage holes - this is something you can easily do yourself.
19
1
Share

Where is the dome light fuse located in the Volkswagen Sagitar?

The dome light fuse box of the Volkswagen Sagitar is located on the left side of the center console, inside the cover panel above the driver's footwell. Steps to replace the fuse: Turn off the engine and power equipment; locate the corresponding position, use a small pry bar to open the protective cover, and you can see the component information on the inside of the fuse box; use a test pen to check whether the fuse is blown. If it is damaged, remove it with tweezers and replace it; only fuses with the same current rating (indicated by the same color and printed text) and the same size can be used for replacement; after replacement, check whether the corresponding component is working, otherwise send it to a repair shop for inspection in time. Precautions related to fuses: Installing fuses of different specifications may cause damage to components or even a fire risk; do not replace fuses with a current rating higher than the specified value, otherwise it may cause the component to burn out; do not splice broken fuses; do not use paper clips to replace the original fuse.
8
2
Share

What is the method to permanently prevent water from sticking to rearview mirrors?

Methods to permanently prevent water from sticking to rearview mirrors: Installing rain deflectors is a common method to prevent rainwater from adhering to rearview mirrors, with noticeable effects, especially in rainy regions where it proves very practical. They generally last for several years, but their effectiveness significantly diminishes during heavy rain. Additionally, high-speed driving comes with the drawback of increased wind noise due to the higher drag coefficient. Using toothpaste, soap, or dishwashing liquid is a convenient and quick solution, as these tools are commonly found at home. The principle is the same: disrupting the attraction between water molecules to reduce the surface tension of water, allowing water molecules to distribute evenly on the glass surface. Even during rain, water droplets will quickly run off without lingering on the mirror, making the rearview mirror much clearer. However, this method does not last long, typically only maintaining effectiveness for about 2 hours.
3
0
Share

How many subjects are required for adding a motorcycle endorsement to a C1 license?

C1 license holders need to pass three subjects to add a motorcycle endorsement. Subject 1 is the theoretical exam, usually conducted via computer. Subject 2 is the field test, primarily focusing on slalom. Subject 3 is the road test, which includes tasks like riding on a narrow bridge, hill start, right-angle turns, and designated parking. The C1 driver's license allows the holder to operate small and micro passenger vehicles, light and micro cargo vehicles, as well as light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles. Small passenger vehicles must have a seating capacity of 9 or fewer. C1 license holders are not permitted to drive: large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, large trucks, regular three-wheeled motorcycles, regular two-wheeled motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, or trams. Additionally, C1 license holders cannot operate vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks exceeding 6 meters in total length.
6
3
Share
Cookie
Cookie Settings
© 2025 Servanan International Pte. Ltd.