What is the reason for a car not having a handbrake?
4 Answers
The absence of a handbrake in a vehicle is merely a misunderstanding caused by insufficient knowledge about the types of handbrakes. All cars are equipped with handbrakes, which come in two forms: the traditional mechanical handbrake, commonly found in most vehicles today—some are operated by hand, while others are engaged by pressing with the left foot—and the electronic handbrake, which is simply a button but functions on the same principle as the former. The traditional handbrake requires the driver to manually release the parking brake or skillfully coordinate the throttle and clutch for a smooth start on slopes. This design might seem like it lacks a handbrake, but in reality, it is equipped with one. The electronic handbrake extends from the basic parking function to the automatic parking feature AUTO-HOLD. The application of AUTO-HOLD automatic parking technology eliminates the need for drivers to maintain prolonged braking when the vehicle is stationary. When the automatic electronic parking brake is engaged, it prevents unnecessary sliding of the vehicle—simply put, the car won't roll backward. The AUTOHOLD automatic parking function utilizes a slope sensor to provide precise parking force through the controller. During startup, the parking control unit, via the clutch distance sensor and clutch engagement speed sensor, automatically releases the parking brake when the driving force exceeds the running resistance, ensuring a smooth start. In daily urban driving, simply enabling the AUTOHOLD function activates the corresponding automatic parking feature. The intelligent AUTOHOLD automatic parking function can automatically engage four-wheel braking when the vehicle is stopped at traffic lights or on slopes, keeping the car stationary even in D or N gear without the need to continuously press the brake pedal or use the handbrake. To release the stationary state, a light tap on the accelerator is sufficient to disengage the brake.
As an experienced driver, I've driven many cars and found that unresponsive handbrakes are quite common, mainly due to aging components. It could be that the cable is loose or broken, preventing force transmission when pulled; or the internal brake shoes are severely worn and can't grip the wheels properly. Sometimes the release button gets stuck or rusted, especially in humid seasons, causing the entire mechanism to fail. Loose or misaligned lever handles can also affect performance. I recommend testing the handbrake's tension before each drive—if it feels weak, inspect it immediately. This isn't a minor issue; waiting until the car rolls and causes an accident is too late. It's best to get it adjusted at a repair shop without delay. Regular maintenance can prevent most problems.
As young parents driving our kids around, a failing handbrake can be quite alarming. Common causes include improper daily usage, such as always pulling it tight when parked on steep slopes, leading to premature wear or breakage of the cable. Sometimes, it's due to children playing with the control lever and damaging it, or internal vehicle water accumulation causing parts to rust and seize. Check if the lever rotates smoothly and listen for unusual noises from the cable. If it's not working, never force driving—it's a major safety hazard. Develop the habit of using gears to assist when parking, and regularly clean the control area to prevent debris from entering. Timely repairs can save both hassle and money.
I always enjoy tinkering with my car myself. Handbrake failures are mostly mechanical issues. Check if the cable is stuck or broken, and try tightening it with a hand crank; replace the brake shoes if they are worn out; loose connection points on the lever can be fixed with a screwdriver. Lubricating the system can also solve rust problems. Before operating, make sure the car is parked securely, and don’t overlook the details. Simple tools can fix minor issues, saving you a trip to the repair shop. Don’t wait for problems to escalate—timely maintenance can extend the lifespan.
