Why does the car make noise when starting after releasing the handbrake?
3 Answers
This situation is normal, as it occurs when the brake pads and brake discs stick together, causing the brake pads to snap back when starting. The parking brake, commonly known as the handbrake, provides resistance to prevent the car from rolling when parked. The parking brake, whether a handbrake or the parking gear in an automatic transmission, locks the drive shaft or rear wheels. The force of the parking brake is much weaker than that of the service brake, just enough to prevent the car from rolling on a slope. There are different types of parking brakes, such as mechanical systems operated by hand or foot. Additionally, high-end vehicles increasingly use electronically controlled parking systems, commonly referred to as electronic handbrakes. The braking system is a crucial component of a car, directly affecting driving stability and safety. The main components of the braking system include the vacuum booster, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake pads, and brake discs. Both brake discs and brake pads are wear-and-tear parts that require regular replacement, as they wear down over the vehicle's mileage.
Last time my car did this, the mechanic told me it was mainly because the brake pads and rotors got stuck together. Especially after rain or washing the car, the layer of surface rust on the rotors makes them adhere. You need to use a bit more force to release the parking brake, and when they separate, it makes a cracking sound. This isn't a major issue—just drive a few more miles to wear it off. However, if the noise persists for several consecutive days, it's best to check if the rear wheel brake caliper pistons are retracting properly and inspect the lubrication of the brake caliper slide rails. Also, avoid pulling the parking brake immediately after washing the car when parked on a slope to reduce this situation.
My cousin's training car had the same issue before, and it turned out to be a problem with the drum brakes. Many cars still use drum brakes on the rear wheels. If the parking brake is pulled for too long, the return springs of the brake shoes may fatigue, preventing the shoes from retracting promptly when released. When you start moving, the shoes might still be rubbing against the brake drum, creating a very sharp noise. This needs to be fixed immediately, as it's dangerous if the rear wheel locks up due to the shoes getting stuck. Here's a little tip: don't pull the parking brake all the way when parking for long periods; on flat ground, just putting it in gear is more worry-free. If you smell rubber burning or notice the wheel hub getting hot, don't hesitate—get it checked right away.
