Should You Release the Handbrake or Shift Gear First When Driving?
1 Answers
It is acceptable to either release the handbrake or shift gear first when driving. For automatic transmission vehicles, you need to press the brake when shifting into D gear, and then release the handbrake to drive. Alternatively, you can first press the brake, release the handbrake, and then shift into D gear to drive—both methods are fine. The same principle applies to manual transmission vehicles. 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 may reduce its effectiveness and increase the handbrake's travel distance.