Should the Handbrake Be Up or Down While Driving?
1 Answers
When starting the car, the handbrake should be released, and when parking, it should be engaged. The handbrake, professionally known as an auxiliary brake, operates differently from the main brake system. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation. Since this deformation is irreversible, long-term use can reduce its effectiveness and increase the handbrake's travel distance. After engaging the handbrake, it utilizes a hydraulic auxiliary cylinder to move the vehicle's main hydraulic cylinder, which then drives an air valve (designed this way to prevent air noise in the cabin). Once the air valve is activated, it applies braking force to the drive shaft.