Should the Handbrake Be Engaged in N Gear?
2 Answers
1. When stopping at a red light in N gear, it is not necessary to engage the handbrake. 2. When the car is in N gear, the power output is directly cut off. Engaging the handbrake is safer, as it prevents the car from rolling backward or other situations. If the car is not in N gear, simply pressing the brake pedal is sufficient. In this case, the engine is still running, and the friction plate on the engine side will remain idling. Here is additional information about the handbrake: 1. The handbrake, professionally referred to as an auxiliary brake, operates differently from the main brake. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the car. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation, which is irreversible. This deformation reduces the effectiveness of the handbrake and increases its travel distance. 2. The handbrake is a frequently used system. Proper and correct usage ensures smoother operation in the future, especially for the most common mechanical handbrakes. It is important to follow the correct method of use. Engaging the handbrake before the car has come to a complete stop is unnecessary and should be avoided.
From my years of experience driving automatic transmission cars, using the parking brake in Neutral (N) gear is essential. When parked on a slope, if you don't engage the parking brake, the car could roll away and cause an accident. Once, I forgot to pull the parking brake while in N gear on a small incline, and the car rolled back half a meter, nearly hitting a wall. Since then, I've never been careless again. Safety always comes first—make it a habit to pull the parking brake every time you park; it's simple and reliable. The same applies to brief stops like waiting at traffic lights or refueling at gas stations, reducing the risk of accidents. This isn't just for your own safety but also to avoid inconveniencing others, such as blocking the road or causing a rear-end collision due to the car rolling. Remember, a few seconds of action can ensure peace of mind while driving.
