Should the handbrake be engaged when parking the Wildlander?
2 Answers
From a theoretical standpoint, it is recommended to engage the handbrake firmly when parking, regardless of the road conditions. Forms of electronic handbrake: Generally speaking, electronic handbrakes nowadays come in two forms: the common button type and the rotary knob type. The methods of use are basically similar: lifting up to engage the handbrake and pressing down to release it. Difference between P gear and handbrake: P gear is a position on the automatic transmission, while the handbrake belongs to the braking system. When parking, it is still necessary to shift into P gear and then engage the handbrake firmly. In fact, if only P gear is engaged, the vehicle will not roll away, whereas using only the handbrake may lead to rolling.
I drive a Wildlander, and I always engage the parking brake when parking, whether on flat ground or a slope—it really prevents the car from rolling. The Wildlander's electronic parking brake is quite smart; it usually activates automatically after shifting to P, but it's essential to develop the habit of manually confirming, especially on inclines—it can be dangerous if the car rolls. I still remember one time in a parking lot when I forgot to engage the parking brake, and the car slid slightly, nearly hitting another car. Since then, I’ve never been careless. Using the parking brake isn’t just about preventing accidents—it also protects the transmission and braking system, extending the car's lifespan. For automatic transmission cars, parking relies solely on the transmission gears to hold the vehicle in place, which can increase wear over time, so manually engaging the parking brake helps share the load. I recommend making it a habit every time you park—take those two seconds to ensure safety. Don’t see it as a hassle; safety comes first, above all else.