
The handbrake of the Bora is located near the center console. Introduction to the handbrake: The professional term for the handbrake is auxiliary brake. Unlike the principle of the main brake, it uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to brake the vehicle. Long-term use of the handbrake can cause plastic deformation of the steel cable. Since this deformation is irreversible, prolonged use will reduce its effectiveness, and the handbrake's travel will also increase. Components of the handbrake: It consists of a brake lever, cable, brake mechanism, and return spring, acting on the drive shaft or rear wheel brakes to achieve vehicle stability. Electronic handbrake working principle: It is activated or deactivated via a button, and the electronic handbrake can be engaged under any vehicle condition.

I've been driving a Bora for three years. The handbrake position actually depends on the model year. Older Bora models have a mechanical handbrake, located between the driver and front passenger seats, in front of the center armrest—a vertical metal lever sticks out there. The newer Bora models have switched to an electronic parking brake, positioned below the steering wheel on the left side, near the door panel on the dashboard, with a button marked 'P'. Those used to mechanical handbrakes might take a while to find it, but the electronic one is quite convenient—just press the button to park without pulling a lever. I remember last time when a friend borrowed my car, they were searching everywhere and finally found it near the left foot. There's usually an auto-hold button next to the electronic parking brake, which can free your right foot at traffic lights.

I'm quite familiar with the Bora's handbrake design - it's very well positioned. In traditional models, the mechanical lever is naturally within reach of your right hand while driving, located just in front of the cup holder on the driver's right side. The newer versions have upgraded to an electronic parking brake, now positioned above the driver's left knee on the dashboard side. It might feel awkward at first, but you'll get used to it after a few uses - that P-labeled button even has backlighting. Special praise goes to Volkswagen's ergonomics - neither type requires you to bend or stretch to operate. Pro tip: pull it tighter when parking on slopes for safety. I once had a close call on a steep hill because I didn't engage the handbrake firmly enough.

Last week, I just taught my cousin how to use the handbrake in her new Bora, and it took us a while to find it. In older models, there was a vertical lever behind the gear stick that made a clicking sound when pulled up hard. Nowadays, post-2020 models mostly come with an electronic parking brake, located below the left air vent near the steering wheel—a round button. I had her sit in the driver's seat and look down near her left leg, and sure enough, she found the switch with a 'P' on it. It's much easier than the mechanical one—just a light press does the trick. Remember to step on the brake before engaging the handbrake, especially on slippery winter slopes in underground garages.


