Is the foot brake engaged when pressed down or released?

[MaddoxLee]

The foot brake is engaged when pressed down. Here are details about the foot brake:1. Definition: The parking foot brake, also known simply as the foot brake, is a type of parking brake mechanism. Parking brake mechanisms refer to the methods of operating the parking brake. Currently, passenger vehicles employ three main types: handbrake, foot brake, and electronic parking brake.2. Advantages: The foot brake is particularly suitable for female drivers. A conventional handbrake typically requires a locking force of around 200N, equivalent to lifting a 20kg object—a considerable effort for many women. Insufficient force application often leads to inadequate parking brake force, resulting in vehicle rollaway. In contrast, the foot brake is controlled entirely by the left foot, requiring only a light press to exceed 200N, making it more reliable and safer than the handbrake.

[PenelopeLee]

When I was learning to drive, I also couldn't figure this out, but later I understood that the foot brake is the parking brake. Pressing it down is the brake—it locks the rear wheels to prevent the car from sliding. After releasing it, the brake remains locked, and to release the brake, you usually need to press it again or pull the release lever. This is different from the brake pedal used while driving, where pressing it applies the brake and releasing it disengages it. I remember during my novice period, I mistakenly thought releasing it was braking, and as a result, the car almost rolled downhill when parked on a slope—a profound lesson. The correct operation is to firmly press the foot brake after stopping to ensure the car doesn't move, and you must release it before starting. This design makes parking safer, especially on slopes where you can't be careless. After driving for a long time, it becomes a habit—first understanding that pressing it locks the car and releasing it disengages it.

[ReeseLynn]

Having driven for decades, I'm most familiar with the operation of the foot brake. Pressing it down indeed engages the brake, as the parking brake is designed this way—a single press locks the wheels. It doesn't automatically reset when you release your foot; you need to operate the release mechanism to disengage it. This is distinctly different from the regular brake pedal: one press to brake, one release to disengage. Improper operation, such as not pressing it down fully or forgetting to release it, will trigger a dashboard warning and illuminate the brake light while driving. It's recommended for beginners to practice on flat ground first, ensuring the actions of pressing to brake and pulling the handbrake are smooth. Always pay attention to the vehicle's status to avoid misoperation that could damage the system. Simply remember: pressing down is braking, releasing is not braking but the disengagement process.

[OAvery]

The mechanism of the foot brake is straightforward: pressing it down engages the brake, locking the vehicle's rear wheels. After releasing your foot, the brake remains active and does not disengage automatically; manual release is required. This differs from the function of the brake pedal while driving. When used correctly, pressing it down ensures parking safety, which is especially important on slopes. A common mistake is assuming the brake releases when the foot is lifted, but this is not the case. Vehicle manuals often emphasize this point, so it's essential to check before operating.