Should the Handbrake Be Applied During Long-Term Parking?

[DeGabriella]

Long-term parking requires the use of the handbrake, which functions by being pulled upward to keep the vehicle stationary and prevent it from rolling. Precautions for using the handbrake: 1. Avoid pulling it too tightly to prevent system damage; 2. Avoid using the handbrake for long-term parking on slopes; 3. Never engage the handbrake while driving at high speeds; 4. Always release the handbrake before starting the car. Driving with the handbrake engaged can damage the braking system, leading to: 1. Accelerated wear of the brake disc and hardening of the brake pads due to overheating, resulting in reduced braking performance; 2. Excessive wear of the handbrake brake pads, potentially causing damage to the drive shaft; 3. Locking of the rear wheels and snapping of the brake cable, which may lead to skidding or even a rollover.

[OJayden]

As a seasoned driver, I firmly believe that applying the handbrake is essential when parking for extended periods, for a simple reason: the vehicle could roll away, leading to dangerous accidents. With over two decades of driving experience, I've witnessed countless instances in parking lots where unattended cars, left without the handbrake engaged, rolled down and crashed into walls. This is especially true on slopes, windy areas, or uneven surfaces—engaging the handbrake after parking locks the wheels, preventing accidents. I'm aware that in cold winters, the handbrake can freeze or rust, but safety comes first. Regular checks or briefly moving the car can mitigate this. In crowded areas, failing to use the handbrake could involve other vehicles, potentially resulting in repair costs running into thousands. Making it a habit to engage the handbrake whenever you park ensures peace of mind, saves trouble, and can even extend your car's lifespan.

[LaGabriel]

From a mechanical perspective, I recommend using the parking brake cautiously during prolonged parking, as the braking system may sustain damage. Through my experience in auto repair, many car owners report issues like brake pad sticking or disc corrosion, especially when parked in high humidity for extended periods. The correct approach is: On flat and secure surfaces like garages, automatic transmissions should be shifted to P (Park) and manual transmissions to reverse gear, eliminating the need for the parking brake; however, on slopes, the parking brake must be engaged to prevent rolling. Remember that temperature plays a significant role—it's advisable to engage the parking brake during rainy seasons and summer but avoid it in freezing winter conditions. Long-term vehicle inactivity can also lead to battery weakening; adding auxiliary wheel chocks is even better. Overall, prioritize protecting the vehicle's structure while balancing safety—don't let minor oversights damage major components.

[OVera]

When I first started learning to drive, I wasn't sure about this either, but now I understand: it's best to engage the handbrake when parking for extended periods. The manual says it's mandatory on slopes, but optional on flat ground—though not entirely safe. My friend's car rolled and scratched another in a parking lot because the handbrake wasn't properly engaged, leading to compensation and a lot of hassle. On clear days, engaging it for a few days is fine, but be cautious of rust during rain or snow. Develop a habit of checking after parking—lightly press the button to confirm it's engaged. It's simple, prevents accidents, and even beginners can master it easily.

[LeJackson]

Living in a cold region where temperatures often drop below zero in winter, I avoid using the handbrake during long parking to prevent freezing. Once, after parking outdoors for two weeks with the handbrake engaged, the brake discs stuck and made a squeaking noise upon startup. Now, I rely on gear locking for stability, which works reliably on flat surfaces like garages; but on slopes, I use wheel chocks as an additional measure. Friends in temperate regions say using the handbrake is normal, while those in rainy areas caution against rust. The key is location-based decisions: always engage the handbrake in crowded urban parking, but relax it in stable, less frequented rural areas. Making reasonable choices can extend component lifespan, and don’t forget to maintain proper tire pressure.