When should you never use the handbrake?

The braking system is one of the most essential features of a car. It is crucial for the safety of the driver and passengers to know when to utilize them.

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Here are three cases where you should never use the handbrake.

There are certain situations where using the handbrake, also known as the emergency brake, can be beneficial. This is when you are parking and in emergency situations, especially when the foot brake is frequently faulty or not functioning properly.

In addition, there are other situations where you may need to use the handbrake, such as during car maintenance.

When your car is being serviced, it is advisable to use it to “relieve stress from the transmission”. It can also keep you and the mechanic safe during the maintenance process.

You can also use the handbrake when you or someone else is changing a car tire, as it will prevent the wheels from spinning.

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Avoid using the handbrake in snowy or rainy conditions

There are three cases in which drivers should not use the handbrake, and two of them are weather-related.

If you use the handbrake in snowy or rainy weather, it will cause the rear wheels to lock up, making it harder to control the car.

Drivers need to have good control of the car in unfavorable weather, so using the handbrake can lead to unforeseen disasters.

Avoid using the handbrake in freezing weather

Similarly, when it is extremely cold for an extended period of time, you should not use the handbrake, even for parking.

According to Reader Digest, the extremely low temperatures can cause the emergency brake cable to freeze. If it freezes, it will be impossible for the driver to release it.

Therefore, drivers should not attempt to drive in freezing conditions, as it will result in a loss of control.

If the weather is very cold with freezing snow, you can wait for the creases in the emergency brake cable to thaw, and then it will function normally again.

If the driver cannot wait, they can rev the engine and warm up the frozen brake cable with a hairdryer or similar tool.

Avoid using the handbrake when driving normally

When driving normally and nothing is happening, you should not use the handbrake. This is called “riding the brake” and it is an easy way to shorten the lifespan of your car. It will cause friction on the brake pads and lead to increased heat, which can boil the brake fluid.

If the brake fluid boils, it will not function properly, meaning your brakes will not work as intended.

Most people will press the brake while driving, as they will not use the handbrake. An easy way to prevent this issue is to not engage the handbrake while driving.

According to VTC

Frequently asked questions

You should never use the handbrake while parking on icy or snow-covered surfaces, as it can freeze and become ineffective. Instead, chock the wheels or turn them toward the curb to prevent the car from moving.

Relying solely on the handbrake can be dangerous as it places all the burden of securing your car on a single component. If the handbrake fails or is not engaged properly, your car may roll away, potentially causing damage or injury. It’s always best to use multiple methods to secure your vehicle, such as using wheel chocks or turning the wheels toward the curb.

Alternative methods to secure a parked car include using wheel chocks, especially on inclined surfaces. You can also turn the wheels toward the curb or use the parking pawl (for automatic transmissions) or first/reverse gear (for manual transmissions) to add an extra layer of security.

It is recommended to have your handbrake inspected and adjusted periodically, ideally during regular maintenance services. This ensures that it remains effective and engages properly. Over time, handbrakes can loosen or wear out, so regular inspections are important for your safety.

Signs that your handbrake may need adjustment or repair include a loose or spongy feel when engaged, excessive travel of the handbrake lever, or if the handbrake light on your dashboard stays on even after releasing the handbrake. Additionally, if you hear grinding or scraping noises when driving after releasing the handbrake, it may indicate that the shoes or pads need to be inspected and possibly replaced.

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