What to Do When the Handbrake Locks Up After Rain?
2 Answers
If the car's brakes lock up in rainy weather, you can try repeatedly moving forward and backward about three times: start the car, release the handbrake, shift into 1st gear/R gear, and alternate between forward and reverse. Pour 100°C boiling water onto the brake pads, then repeat the first method. The brake pads and brakes will automatically separate. You can also remove the tire and tap the brake drum to loosen the brake shoes and drum inside.
This is a situation I've encountered many times over the years of driving, mainly because rainwater causes the brake discs or drums to rust and stick, leading to the handbrake getting stuck. My advice is not to rush to start the car. Instead, gently press the accelerator and slowly move forward or backward a few meters to try and loosen the rusted parts through friction heat. If that doesn't work, ask someone to help push the car or use a jack to lift the wheel and lightly tap the brake parts to release the rust. Afterwards, remember to visit a repair shop to clean and maintain the brake system to prevent corrosion buildup. For prevention, it's best to use the gear to lock the wheels or place a stone under the wheels instead of the handbrake when parking on rainy nights, which can significantly reduce the risk of seizing. Developing a habit of checking the brakes and drying the components after each car wash will give you more peace of mind.
