What Causes the Rear Wheels Not to Move After Releasing the Handbrake?
3 Answers
If the rear wheels do not move after releasing the handbrake, it may be because the rear wheels remain locked. Here are the possible reasons for the rear wheels being locked: (1) The handbrake cable is frozen, or the brake friction pads are frozen. (2) The brake caliper is damaged, or the handbrake cable is rusted and stuck. (3) The brake pads and brake drum are rusted together. Methods to prevent freezing, rusting, or damage: (1) In extremely cold weather, avoid using the handbrake. For manual transmissions, engage first gear; for automatic transmissions, use the P (Park) position. (2) After driving in rainy conditions or washing the car, press the brakes several times to generate heat and evaporate moisture. (3) Regularly maintain and service the vehicle, as technicians will inspect the braking system for any issues.
My driving experience tells me that if the rear wheels don't move after releasing the handbrake, it's mostly due to the handbrake cable or brake system being stuck. For example, in humid weather, moisture seeps into the brake cable, causing rust, and the lever doesn't return to its position when the handbrake is released. Also, the rear brake pads might be stuck to the drum, especially after prolonged parking or rain, as the friction material tends to bond and is hard to separate. During inspection, first try pulling and releasing the handbrake several times to listen for any sticking sounds; if that doesn't work, check under the car for rust or foreign objects. Safety first—don't force the car to move, as it could wear out the brake discs and increase repair costs. Regularly spraying some lubricant on the handbrake cable can prevent this situation, and I often maintain my car this way. It's best to have a professional mechanic use tools to check if the cables and components are loose or aged.
As a daily driver, I find it quite common for the rear wheels not to move after releasing the handbrake, often due to freezing in low temperatures. During winter snow or ice, moisture in the handbrake mechanism freezes and jams the cable, and the brake pads also freeze onto the wheel hub. Don't rush to start the car; first, feel the rear wheels by hand to check for cold, hard ice. If present, gently melt it by pouring warm water or using a hairdryer. Another factor is parking on an uneven or gentle slope for too long, causing the brakes to automatically lock. For safety, avoid forcing the car to move to prevent damage to the drivetrain or uncontrolled sliding. Regular maintenance should include cleaning debris around the wheels and choosing flat parking spots to reduce failure rates. I've encountered this issue a few times and resolved it easily, restoring normal operation.
