What happens if you drive a car without engaging the handbrake?
2 Answers
Driving a car without disengaging the handbrake can lead to: 1. The brake system warning light on the dashboard remains constantly illuminated. The vehicle's brake system warning light typically turns on when the handbrake is engaged and turns off when it is released; 2. Difficulty in starting or even inability to move, with a noticeable dragging sensation while driving. Engaging the handbrake creates significant resistance to the movement of the rear wheels, making it particularly noticeable when starting at low RPMs; 3. Smoke from the rear wheels, the brake discs turning red, and a burning smell; 4. If driving with the handbrake engaged for an extended period, it can lead to increased fuel consumption and accelerated wear of the brake pads.
From my over 20 years of driving experience, driving without engaging the handbrake poses significant risks. Especially when parked on a slope, gravity can cause the vehicle to roll—minor incidents might involve hitting barriers or flower beds, while severe cases could see the car sliding into ditches or even into pedestrian areas, directly threatening lives and property. If you forget to release the handbrake before driving, the rear wheels remain forcibly braked, causing the brake pads to overheat and wear out quickly, leading to expensive part replacements sooner than expected. Fuel consumption also spikes dramatically. After witnessing several accidents, I've developed the habit of always engaging the handbrake when parking and double-checking the indicator light before driving. These two simple steps save hassle, money, and enhance safety. For slope parking, extra caution is needed—besides the handbrake, I also shift into 'P' gear or use wheel chocks for added security.
