What is a Parking Brake?
2 Answers
Parking brake refers to the manually operated brake installed in motor vehicles, commonly known as the handbrake. It is used to stabilize the vehicle after it has come to a stop, preventing accidents caused by rolling on inclined surfaces. The typical handbrake is usually located within easy reach of the driver's right hand for convenient operation. Some automatic transmission models on the market feature a foot brake with the same functionality as the handbrake, positioned outside the driver's left foot. Advanced models may also be equipped with an electronic parking brake system. To engage the parking brake, press the brake pedal down and pull the parking brake lever fully upward. To release the parking brake, press the brake pedal down, slightly pull the parking brake lever upward, press the button on the handle with your thumb, and then lower the parking brake lever back to its original position.
The parking brake, commonly known as the handbrake or parking brake, is specifically used to secure the vehicle when parked and prevent it from rolling away. Having driven for over a decade, I often forgot to engage the handbrake when parking on slopes, which nearly caused my car to roll down, leaving me terrified. It is typically located next to the driver's seat, and in some car models, it comes in a foot pedal form—just a press will do. When parking, shifting to neutral and then pulling the handbrake is crucial to prevent the car from sliding, especially on icy winter roads or steep inclines. Neglecting it could lead to disastrous accidents. It's advisable to regularly inspect it; rusted or loose cables can reduce braking efficiency, but a quick adjustment at a repair shop can prevent trouble. Remember, developing good habits can save lives—don’t be as careless as I was in my earlier years.
