What Are the Effects of Stepping on the Accelerator Without Releasing the Handbrake?
2 Answers
Decline in braking performance, the most direct impact is accelerated wear of the brake discs and hardening of the brake pads due to overheating, as well as elongation of the handbrake cable. This leads to a decline in braking performance. Complete loss of braking function, causing the brake caliper to seize, brake fluid leakage, and excessively high brake fluid temperature, resulting in a total loss of braking function. Function of the handbrake system: The handbrake is part of the auxiliary braking system, primarily relying on manual force, generally used when parking to prevent the vehicle from rolling on its own. Currently, the handbrake systems in the vast majority of sedans and light vehicles act on the rear wheels. Drum brakes themselves can double as parking brakes; when parked, the shoes and friction linings inside the brake drum engage, generating braking force. Necessity of proper use: The handbrake is a frequently used system. Only through reasonable and correct usage can it ensure smoother operation in the future, extend its adjustment cycle, and reduce maintenance and replacement costs.
That time I forgot to release the handbrake while driving, stepped on the gas, but the car barely moved, and smoke started coming from the wheels. I was so scared that I immediately stopped the car. The reason was that the handbrake was clamping the rear wheel brakes, and the engine's power was forcibly dragging them along. The friction generated heat, causing the brake pads to wear out quickly or even deform. In severe cases, the brake discs could overheat and crack. This is no small matter—once the braking system is damaged, repairs can be expensive. Just replacing ordinary brake pads can cost one to two thousand yuan. Not to mention the rapid increase in fuel consumption, wasting money on gas for nothing. Remember, don’t panic when starting off; make sure the handbrake light on the dashboard is off before driving. Playing with fire like this for a long time will also accelerate tire wear. For safety’s sake, cultivate good habits.
