Will Towing Without Releasing the Handbrake Damage the Car?
1 Answers
Towing without releasing the handbrake can indeed damage the car. The most immediate harms include accelerated wear of the brake discs, hardening of the brake pads due to overheating, and elongation of the handbrake cable. This can lead to reduced braking performance and, in severe cases, smoke emanating from the rear of the car. Consequences of Driving Without Releasing the Handbrake: If you drive with the handbrake engaged for an extended period, it may also cause the brake caliper to seize, brake fluid leakage, and excessive temperature of the brake fluid, resulting in a complete loss of braking function. Generally, the faster the speed while driving with the handbrake on, the greater the damage to the braking components, and there will also be some damage to the tires. Hazards of Continuing to Drive Without Releasing the Handbrake: If you encounter driving with the handbrake engaged and notice a strong burning smell or smoke from the rear of the car, you should immediately slow down, apply the brakes, and release the handbrake. Do not continue driving at this point. Instead, pull over to the side of the road, wait for the car's temperature to drop, and carefully check for any other abnormalities. Never simply release the handbrake and continue driving while the car is still at a high temperature.