Is pulling up the handbrake considered braking?
2 Answers
Pulling up the handbrake is indeed braking. The handbrake, also known as the auxiliary brake, operates differently from the main braking system. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation. Since this deformation is irreversible, long-term use will reduce its effectiveness and increase the handbrake's travel distance. The maintenance methods for the braking system include: 1. High-temperature protection to prevent corrosion of the braking system and avoid brake pad seizure due to overheating; 2. Cleaning oil stains from the brake discs and drums to ensure proper heat dissipation; 3. Regularly replacing the brake fluid; 4. Periodically checking the thickness of the brake pads or shoes.
Raising the handbrake means engaging the brakes, something I've deeply understood after years of driving. If you don't pull the handbrake when parking, the car can easily roll away, especially on slopes or uneven surfaces. The handbrake mechanically locks the rear brake pads, providing stable parking force, unlike the dynamic braking of the foot brake. I've found this function particularly important in winter when roads are slippery or parking spaces are tight, as it prevents accidental rolling. Maintenance is also simple—just regularly check if the cable moves smoothly and don't wait until it rusts to worry about it. In short, developing the habit of using the handbrake when parking is crucial; it's not just a decoration but a real safety guarantee.
