What is the difference between service brake and parking brake?
4 Answers
Here are the main differences between service brake and parking brake: 1. Different functions: (1) The parking brake is the brake used when the vehicle is stationary, also known as the handbrake. Its main function is to prevent the vehicle from sliding forward or rolling backward. (2) The service brake is what we commonly refer to as the foot brake. Its main functions are deceleration and stopping the vehicle. The brake used during driving is called the service brake. 2. Different principles: (1) When starting on a slope, the parking brake requires the driver to manually release the handbrake or skillfully coordinate the accelerator and clutch for a smooth start. (2) Due to the presence of the transmission, the service brake needs to be adjusted according to different gear ratios. The higher the gear, the smaller the gear ratio. 3. Different braking effects: (1) The parking brake only has a braking effect on the two rear wheels. (2) The service brake is used while the vehicle is in motion. It is a hydraulic brake system, and all four wheels have a braking effect.
I often use the service brake to slow down or stop while driving, such as pressing the brake pedal to control speed, which is suitable for dynamic adjustments during driving to avoid rear-end collisions or skidding. The parking brake, on the other hand, is applied after parking by pulling the handbrake or pressing the electronic button, mainly to prevent the vehicle from sliding, especially on slopes where it's prone to rolling. It's dangerous to habitually confuse the two—using the handbrake while driving can lock the rear wheels and cause loss of control, while relying solely on the foot brake when parked and forgetting the handbrake may lead to the car rolling and hitting something. Develop the right habits when driving: release the handbrake when starting, rely on the foot brake while driving, and pull up the handbrake after coming to a complete stop. Nowadays, new cars come with more electronic systems and automatic functions, but the core logic remains unchanged—safety first, don't cut corners.
I noticed functional design differences in automotive braking systems. The service brake is the core of daily driving, with a hydraulic system that responds quickly to slow down with a single pedal press, adapting to ever-changing traffic conditions. The parking brake features a simple, independent mechanical structure, relying solely on cables to lock the rear wheels, designed purely for stationary stability. Importance is evident in accidents: mistakenly using the parking brake while driving may cause fishtailing or rollovers, while relying solely on the footbrake when parked risks draining the battery or failure, especially with increased sliding risks on rainy days. Routine maintenance also requires attention—aging parking cables need repair, and regular replacement of footbrake pads prevents hazards. Never cut corners when driving; proper use of both braking systems ensures safety.
The service brake and parking brake serve entirely different purposes. While driving, the service brake is activated by pressing the brake pedal, which slows the wheels through hydraulic pressure; after parking, the parking brake is engaged by pulling a lever or pressing an electronic button, directly locking the wheel axle to prevent rolling. Confusing their operations, such as pulling the handbrake while driving, can lead to increased tire wear and a higher risk of losing control. For safe driving, develop the habit of releasing the handbrake before starting, focusing on using the foot brake while driving, and securing the vehicle after parking—especially paying attention to properly engaging the handbrake on slopes. With more practice, beginners can easily distinguish between the two.
