What to Do When the Car Handbrake Won't Release?
2 Answers
Use your right hand to hold the handbrake lever, lift it slightly, press the handbrake button with your thumb, and then push the lever down. Below are instructions on how to use the handbrake: 1. Engaging the handbrake: After the car is parked, hold the handbrake lever with your right hand and pull it up to about 70% of its height. There is no need to press the button when pulling the handbrake. 2. Releasing the handbrake: When releasing the handbrake, hold the lever with your right hand, place your thumb on the button, lift the lever slightly, press the button, and push the lever all the way down. Do not release the button while lowering the lever. 3. Precautions: Do not pull the handbrake too high. When using the handbrake, pulling it to 70% of its height is sufficient, as the braking effect is the same whether fully pulled or at 70%. Additionally, keeping the handbrake fully engaged for long periods can reduce the cable's ability to retract and shorten the handbrake's lifespan.
I often encounter situations where the handbrake won't release while driving. This is usually caused by a stuck button or frozen mechanical components, especially frequently in winter. First, I try pressing the handbrake button firmly several times, as sometimes multiple presses can release the lock. If that doesn't work, I gently rock the vehicle and have someone push the car body to help loosen the handbrake. Check if the handbrake cable is aged or rusted, as older cars are more prone to this issue. In cold weather, if the handbrake is frozen, I can pour some warm water near the handbrake mechanism to thaw it—never use boiling water to avoid damaging the parts. If these simple tricks don't work, I have to temporarily park on level ground to prevent rolling and get to a repair shop as soon as possible, otherwise it will wear out the brake pads. Handbrake issues affect driving safety and shouldn't be delayed. Regularly applying some lubricant to the handbrake mechanism can prevent similar failures.