What Does It Mean When the Parking Brake Is Activated?
2 Answers
The parking brake is in the braking state. The following is the relevant introduction of the parking brake: 1. Function: The parking brake, commonly known as the handbrake, provides resistance to the car when parked to prevent it from rolling. The parking brake, also known as the handbrake or the parking gear in automatic transmissions, locks the drive shaft or rear wheels. The force of the parking brake is much weaker than that of the service brake, only preventing the car from rolling on slopes. 2. Usage: The parking brake is generally used when parking is required. At red lights, you can also shift to neutral and use the parking brake, i.e., the handbrake. Parking brakes are divided into two types: electronic brakes and handbrakes.
Having driven for most of my life, experience tells me that the dashboard warning 'Parking Brake Engaged' means you've pulled the handbrake or the electronic brake is properly applied when parking, ensuring the vehicle is fully braked and won't roll. This is especially crucial when parking on slopes to prevent accidents caused by rolling. I've seen several times on Beijing streets where beginners forgot to engage the handbrake, causing their cars to roll several meters and hit others—resulting in minor repairs at best or injuries at worst. For automatic transmission cars, it's advisable to manually apply the handbrake after shifting to P; manual transmission cars must operate this way. Always remember to release the brake and wait for the warning to disappear before driving off, otherwise, it wears the brake system and may cause starting difficulties. Developing good parking habits saves on repair costs and protects both your safety and others'.
