What are the consequences of engaging the electronic parking brake before the car comes to a complete stop?

[AdrianLynn]

Intensifies brake pad wear and affects systems such as the rear shock absorbers and tie rods. Below are the relevant details: 1. Electronic Parking Brake: The electronic parking brake is a technology that achieves parking braking through electronic control. Its working principle is the same as that of a mechanical handbrake, both achieving parking braking control through the friction generated between the brake disc and brake pads, except that the control method has changed from the previous mechanical handbrake lever to an electronic button. 2. Advantages of Electronic Parking Brake: The parking brake handle inside the cabin is eliminated, providing more design flexibility for the overall interior styling. The parking brake is replaced by a single button, eliminating the need for the driver to exert force to pull the parking brake handle, making it simpler and less labor-intensive, thereby reducing the operational burden on drivers, especially female drivers.

[Larry]

Last time on the highway, I accidentally pressed the electronic handbrake before the car had completely stopped. Instantly, I felt the car jerk violently, as if the rear wheels had suddenly locked up, which scared me into quickly steadying the steering wheel. Although this kind of misoperation won’t directly damage the car, it can cause the rear wheels to lock up. If the road is wet or slippery, it might lead to loss of control and spinning, increasing the risk of an accident. Doing this frequently can accelerate brake disc wear or overwork the ABS system. Modern electronic handbrakes have protective mechanisms that may only cause a slight pause at low speeds, but at high speeds, it’s absolutely disastrous. It’s best to develop the habit of waiting until the red light comes on or the car is completely stationary before pressing it—this is safer and saves money in the long run. Don’t ask me how I know—I had to spend a few thousand on repairs after one lesson, and it wasn’t worth it.

[IsabelFitz]

The electronic parking brake is essentially an electronically controlled braking system. Pressing it is equivalent to forcibly applying the brakes to the rear wheels. If the car hasn't come to a complete stop, especially during low-speed urban driving, sudden locking of the rear wheels can cause severe jolting, potentially injuring passengers and accelerating wear on tires and brake pads. At high speeds, it's even worse—the system might trigger ABS, increasing the risk of losing control. Occasional accidental operation isn't a major issue, but frequent misuse can overheat sensors or relays. I've seen a friend's car break down because of this. It's advisable to check brake fluid levels and system performance, and seek professional inspection immediately if unusual noises occur. Developing the habit of only engaging it after the vehicle is fully stationary is absolutely crucial.

[SanZachary]

Engaging the electronic parking brake before the car comes to a complete stop is quite common. Once, while driving around the city, I accidentally pressed it, resulting in a loud clunk as the rear wheels locked up, mimicking a sudden brake, and I nearly got rear-ended. The main consequences are momentary loss of control, such as wheel skidding or objects flying inside the car. While it won’t immediately damage the vehicle, it can certainly give you a scare. At higher speeds, the risk of an accident increases significantly. Most electronic systems are designed with safety in mind, and at low speeds, they might only trigger a warning light. To avoid this, practice parking maneuvers more often and only activate the handbrake after coming to a full stop. Remember, safety first!