Under what circumstances is the handbrake generally used?
4 Answers
The handbrake is generally released when parking and engaged when starting the car. Specific details about the handbrake are as follows: 1. Principle of the handbrake: The professional term for the handbrake is auxiliary brake. Unlike the main brake, it uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to brake the vehicle. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause plastic deformation of the steel cable, which cannot recover on its own. This deformation reduces effectiveness over time and increases the handbrake's travel distance. 2. Precautions for using the handbrake: Always remember to engage the handbrake when stopped on a slope. During high-speed driving, the handbrake cannot replace the foot brake.
When you stop your car, the handbrake comes in very handy. For example, when parking on a slope, whether it's uphill or downhill, you must engage it; otherwise, the car may roll away, posing a risk of accidents. In daily life, such as parking on the roadside, in underground parking lots, or during car washes, pulling the handbrake ensures the car stays firmly in place. Even during brief stops, like waiting at a red light, you don’t need to shift to neutral—just pull the handbrake for a more relaxed experience. It’s especially useful when starting a manual transmission car, working in tandem with the clutch. Remember, never use it while driving, as it can wear out the braking system or tires. Failing to engage the handbrake during long-term parking can destabilize the vehicle’s center of gravity, affecting the chassis and brake lines. Make it a habit to check and engage the handbrake before turning off the engine—safety first, to avoid regrets later.
I almost never skip using the parking brake when I park. When stopping on a slope in front of my house or by the roadside, the car will roll away without it – especially on rainy days when the road is slippery, making the parking brake essential for stability. For brief stops like waiting outside a supermarket, pulling the parking brake ensures safety and peace of mind. When starting a manual transmission car, a quick pull on the parking brake makes shifting gears easier. It's also crucial in emergencies; if the main brakes fail, the parking brake can serve as a backup lifesaver. I once had an embarrassing experience when I forgot to engage it on a slope – the car slowly rolled downhill and nearly hit something. That incident taught me a lasting lesson. My advice: don’t cut corners. Small habits bring great safety. Also, check the parking brake components during regular vehicle maintenance to ensure nothing is loose.
From a mechanical perspective, the handbrake is primarily used for parking: locking the rear wheels to prevent rolling. It must be used when parking on slopes, otherwise the car may roll and cause accidents. For manual transmission vehicles, it is used in conjunction with clutch operation for smooth starts. When parking for extended periods, such as on weekends when the car is not in use, pulling it tight protects the transmission. Avoid misuse while driving to prevent burning out the brake cables; daily checks should ensure the pulling force is appropriate—too loose and it won't be effective. Proper use extends the lifespan of the components.
