Should the Handbrake Be Up or Down While Driving?

[DiMiranda]

While driving, the handbrake should be down. The function of the handbrake is to brake the vehicle when parked on flat ground or slopes, preventing the vehicle from automatically sliding when unattended and avoiding traffic accidents. The hazards of forgetting to release the handbrake while driving include: 1. The brake pump cannot provide sufficient braking force, causing the engine to stall; 2. Accelerated wear of the brake discs and hardening of the brake pads due to friction heat; 3. Lengthening of the handbrake cable; 4. Leakage of brake cylinder oil, leading to brake failure. The correct method of applying the handbrake is: 1. Press the handbrake button before pulling it; 2. Apply gentle force when pulling the handbrake; 3. Pull the handbrake to about 70% of its capacity, as pulling it to the highest point will shorten the lifespan of the handbrake cable.