Handbrake Features and Usage Explained

A car's braking system is a crucial component ensuring safety and control. Apart from the primary foot-operated brakes, there's another type of brake that's operated by hand – the handbrake.

Have you ever wondered about the use of handbrake in car? It is also known as the parking brake. But it serves various purposes beyond just parking.

In this blog, we will discuss the car hand brake system or parking brake in car in detail. We will understand the use of handbrakes in cars and their different types and functions. We will also discuss when and how to use a handbrake car effectively.

What is a Car Handbrake?

A handbrake in a car act as a manual lever to halt the car if the main brakes stop working. It is useful for preventing the car from rolling backwards on slopes or when parked. This happens by pressing disc pads or brake shoes against the rear tires.

It is important to note that modern cars include automatic handbrakes. These engage when the vehicle is stopped and disengage when acceleration is applied. In essence, a car handbrake is a backup plan for braking when the main system fails.

How Does a Handbrake Work?

Wondering, “How does handbrake work?”. Use of handbrake in car involves activating the rear brakes. Here is a simple breakdown of how a handbrake functions:

A metal cable connects the handbrake lever to the rear brakes. Pulling the handbrake lever tightens the cable. This causes the brake pads or shoes to press against the discs or drums, thus activating the rear brakes.

Some vehicles have separate brake components on the rear axle dedicated solely to the handbrake function. Modern vehicles often feature electronic handbrakes. These also function on the same principle by using electric motors to press the pads onto the discs.

How to Use a Handbrake in a Car

Handbrake use in cars is a straightforward process. The process can vary depending on your car's model and transmission type. The are four primary ways to understand the handbrake use in cars. They are –

• Use of handbrake in an automatic car while parking
• Use of handbrake in an automatic car while driving
• Use of handbrake in a manual car while parking
• Use of handbrake in a manual car while driving

The above-mentioned use of handbrake in car is explained in detail in the succeeding sections.

How to Use a Handbrake in an Automatic Car

Let us first discuss how to use the handbrake when parking the car. First, stop the car completely. Then press the brake pedal and change the handbrake gear lever into 'Park' mode. After pushing the button on the handbrake gear lever’s end slightly begin to pull the lever. When the lever gets tense then release the button. Check the parking brake light on the dashboard to confirm that the handbrake is engaged. Ensuring proper parking techniques not only prevents damage to your vehicle but can also help you maintain compliance with car insurance requirements. After confirming it you can release the brake pedal.

When you want to drive the car, press the brake pedal and shift the handbrake gear lever to 'drive' mode. Then gently raise the handbrake lever and press the button at the end of the handbrake lever. Then, push the lever down fully and release the button. Verify the dashboard to ensure that the parking brake light is off. This means the handbrake has been disengaged. Lastly, release the brake pedal and press the accelerator to start driving your car.

How to Use a Handbrake in a Manual Car

Let us first discuss the use of parking brakes in car. While parking the car, when using a manual handbrake in a car on flat ground, shift to neutral and pull the handbrake lever. In case you are on an uphill road, shift the handbrake lever to first gear and engage the handbrake. In case you are on a downhill slope, shift the handbrake lever to reverse gear and pull the handbrake.

When driving a manual car, first step on the brake pedal and let go of the handbrake. Next, engage first gear while pressing the clutch and begin driving. When starting uphill, employ the handbrake to stop from rolling back. Push your car’s clutch, and shift to first gear. Give slight gas, release the clutch till engaged, and then let go of the handbrake.

What are the Features and Functions of Car Handbrakes?

The functions of a car handbrake system are:

• Parking Security: One of the primary functions is to hold the vehicle securely in place when parked. This is especially important on inclines or uneven surfaces.
• Emergency Backup: In case your main brake fails, handbrakes serve as an emergency backup braking system. In such cases, they can provide stopping power to prevent accidents.
• Training Tool: Handbrakes are commonly used during driver training for learning hill starts and other advanced driving techniques.
• Additional Control: Some situations require precise control, such as parallel parking or tight spaces. Here, the handbrake can provide finer adjustments than the main brakes.

The features of a handbrake car are:

• Handbrakes engage the rear wheels. This prevents the vehicle from moving forward or backwards.
• Some handbrakes can also adjust the tension for optimal performance.

• Proper use of the handbrake can reduce stress on the transmission and clutch.

What are the Different Types of Car Handbrakes?

The following three are the most common types of parking brakes in car:

• Lever-Operated Handbrakes: It is situated between the front seats. The traditional lever-operated handbrake is easy to use. Also, most drivers are familiar with it.
• Button-Operated Handbrakes: In modern vehicles, electronic handbrakes often replace the lever with buttons. These buttons engage and disengage the handbrake electronically. This provides a streamlined look and an auto-release feature.
• Foot Pedal Handbrakes: Certain vehicles employ a foot pedal to activate the handbrake. This pedal is operated using the foot. This feature offers convenience and easy accessibility.

Safety Measures to Follow While Using Car Handbrakes

Using a handbrake safely is crucial. Remember to keep the following aspects in mind when you handbrake use in car:

• Apply on Level Ground: Engage the handbrake on level terrain whenever possible.
• Use Main Brakes First: Apply the main brakes before engaging the handbrake.
• Release Slowly: When releasing the handbrake, do so gradually to avoid sudden movements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Handbrakes

What happens if I drive my car with the handbrake engaged?

Driving with the handbrake engaged causes excessive wear on the brakes. This can lead to overheating. This damages brake components and reduces their effectiveness. Such damage will eventually result in costly repairs.

Also, the constant friction generated between the engaged handbrake and the moving wheels can lead to heat buildup. It could also lead to warping of brake discs or drums. It could further lead to compromised brake fluid performance. Hence, it is essential that you release the handbrake before driving to avoid these issues.

Can I park my car without a handbrake?

Alternative question: Is it possible to park my car without utilizing the handbrake?

Yes, you can park your car without engaging the handbrake. But you should avoid doing so. Use of handbrake in car is safer. This is especially when you are driving on slopes. Here, engaging your car’s handbrake while parking prevents unintended rolling. By ensuring that your car remains stationary a handbrake minimises the risk of accidents.

How do I release the handbrake in my car?

Alternative question: How to disengage the handbrake in my car?

To release the handbrake in your car, follow these steps: First, if your car has a release button, push it. Then, while keeping your foot on the brake pedal, gradually lower the handbrake lever. This controlled and gradual release ensures that the vehicle doesn't experience sudden or unexpected movements. Always remember to release the handbrake before driving to ensure a smooth start without any jerks.

Can I use the handbrake if my car’s main brakes fail?

Yes, the handbrake can serve as an emergency stopping measure if the main brakes fail. But its efficiency differs. It is important to keep in mind that a handbrake will not bring your vehicle to a stop as swiftly as the main brakes. Also, if you rely solely on the handbrake for extended periods it can lead to overheating. Hence, it is best to use it as a temporary solution.

Is there any difference between parking brakes and handbrakes?

No, there is no difference between a handbrake and a parking brake. A handbrake car is also called a parking brake. They ensure that the car remains stationary when parked. Thus, they prevent potential accidents caused by unintentional rolling. Hence, whether you refer to it as a parking brake or a handbrake, its function remains the same.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.  

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