What to Do If the Car Still Rolls After Applying the Handbrake?
3 Answers
Solutions for when the car still rolls after applying the handbrake: You can tighten the handbrake cable. For manual transmission vehicles, you can press the clutch with your left foot, press the brake with your right foot, engage any forward gear, apply the handbrake, and then turn off the engine. This uses the gear's traction to prevent rolling. For automatic transmission vehicles, press the brake, shift to P (Park), apply the handbrake, and turn off the engine. This utilizes the automatic transmission's P gear lock to prevent further rolling. If the handbrake suddenly fails or doesn't hold during normal use, it can be very dangerous, especially on steep slopes where sudden failure poses greater risks. Automatic transmission models are easier to operate; when in a forward gear, holding the brake will prevent rolling, and quickly applying the throttle as you release the brake ensures enough power to move the vehicle forward.
I remember one time I parked on a slope, pulled the handbrake, and the car still slid backward, almost hitting an electric scooter behind me. I was so panicked that I broke out in a cold sweat. Later, at the repair shop, they found out the brake pads were severely worn, and the cable was too loose to tighten properly. The mechanic said it was due to frequent use and lack of maintenance. If you encounter this situation, don’t rush to drive—first find a flat surface and test the handbrake at its highest setting to see if it still slips. It’s best to get the braking system checked by a professional shop as soon as possible. Don’t underestimate this issue—a sliding car on city streets can easily cause an accident. During regular maintenance, remind the mechanic to test the handbrake’s effectiveness—it can save you a lot of trouble.
I've driven various vehicles, and handbrake slippage is mostly due to mechanical issues, such as aging cables or excessive brake pad clearance. When parking on slopes, it's best to pull the handbrake a few extra times to ensure it's fully engaged, or place a rock against the wheels to prevent sliding. Don't attempt DIY repairs, especially with the rear wheel adjustment mechanism—it's very sensitive, and incorrect torque application can worsen the situation. For safety, if the car still slips after tightening the handbrake, don't force it to move. Immediately turn on the hazard lights, pull over, and call a tow truck to take it to the dealership. Replacing brake pads isn't expensive, but it can prevent major accidents. Develop good habits: after parking, gently rock the car back and forth to verify it's truly secured.
