What are the consequences of driving with the handbrake on?
3 Answers
Driving with the handbrake on can cause very serious consequences. Short-term driving will lead to wear of the brake discs or parking drum brakes, the brake pads becoming hard after heating up, and the handbrake cable becoming longer. The consequences include reduced braking performance, a burning smell inside the car, and in severe cases, smoke from the rear of the car or even a fire.
Last time, a friend of mine drove his family car to the supermarket in a hurry and forgot to release the handbrake. He only realized something was wrong after driving about five kilometers. He told me the car felt extremely sluggish, accelerated slowly, and consumed a lot more fuel than usual. When he stopped, the brake pads were scorching hot. The consequences? First, the braking system will wear out faster, with the brake pads and drums failing prematurely, costing hundreds to replace. Second, the engine has to work harder to push the car, potentially increasing fuel consumption by up to 20%. Over time, this can also damage transmission components, and in severe cases, overheating could lead to loss of control and accidents. Driving on the highway is even worse, as the high wheel burn rate compromises safety. Personally, I recommend developing a habit of checking the handbrake before driving—don’t rush, and you’ll save both hassle and money. This mistake is common in congested areas and can happen to both new and experienced drivers. A little extra reminder can prevent a lot of trouble.
As someone with some knowledge about cars, I must emphasize that driving with the handbrake engaged poses multiple hazards. It unnecessarily increases brake load, accelerating wear on components like brake pads, with repair costs ranging from hundreds to thousands. The engine is also affected, forced to work harder to push the car, resulting in higher fuel consumption and reduced efficiency. Prolonged driving this way stresses the drivetrain, potentially damaging tires or axles, and on slopes, it can make the vehicle unstable, increasing accident risks. I speak from experience—having made this mistake before, the car moved sluggishly and struggled. My advice: always release the handbrake before starting, avoid prolonged high-RPM driving, as this protects components and enhances road safety.
