Should You Press the Brake When Pulling the Handbrake?
2 Answers
You need to press the brake when pulling the handbrake. Here are the specific details about the handbrake: 1. The handbrake is purely mechanical: Long-term use will reduce its efficiency. The professional name for the handbrake is the auxiliary brake, which operates differently from the main brake. 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, which is irreversible, leading to reduced efficiency over time. 2. The best parking method for a car: This method ensures that all components of the vehicle are in a stress-free state, maintaining their performance and extending their lifespan. 3. The return spring should be used in conjunction with the handbrake: When the handbrake is engaged, the spring is stretched; when the handbrake is released, the spring returns to its original length. Long-term use of the handbrake can cause the spring to deform accordingly. Any component subjected to prolonged and frequent use will experience reduced effectiveness.
When driving normally, I always press the brake pedal first when parking to ensure the car comes to a complete stop before pulling the handbrake. Especially on slopes, if you operate the handbrake without pressing the brake, the car may move slightly and easily lose control, which can be really dangerous. I remember one time my friend was in a hurry and pulled the handbrake without pressing the brake, causing the car to roll back and hit a small tree, costing some repair money. I recommend developing this habit: stop the car, press the brake, pull the handbrake, and then shift to neutral for manual transmissions or P for automatic transmissions. This simple and safe procedure can prevent accidents and extend the life of the braking system. Sticking to it long-term reduces car wear and makes driving much more worry-free.
