Is Handbrake Necessary
Oludare Padilla
Is Handbrake Necessary? Everything You Need to Know About This Car Feature
Handbrake, also known as parking brake, is a lever or a button that applies the brakes on the rear wheels of a car. It is usually located between the driver's seat and the center console, or on the dashboard. But what is the purpose of handbrake and when should you use it? Is handbrake necessary for all cars, especially those with automatic transmission? In this article, we will answer these questions and more.
What is the purpose of handbrake?
The main purpose of handbrake is to prevent the car from rolling away when it is parked on a slope or a flat surface. It does this by locking the rear wheels and creating friction between them and the road. This way, even if the car is accidentally shifted out of gear or the transmission fails, the car will not move.
Another purpose of handbrake is to help the driver control the car in emergency situations, such as when the main brakes fail or when the car skids on slippery roads. By applying the handbrake gently and gradually, the driver can slow down the car and steer it to a safe place. However, this technique requires skill and practice, and should not be attempted by inexperienced drivers.
When should you use handbrake?
You should use handbrake whenever you park your car, especially on a slope or a flat surface. This will ensure that your car stays in place and does not roll away or damage other cars or objects. To use handbrake properly, follow these steps:
- Stop your car and put it in neutral (for manual transmission) or park (for automatic transmission).
- Pull up or press down the handbrake lever or button until you feel resistance.
- Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
- If you are parking on a slope, turn your steering wheel towards the curb (if facing downhill) or away from the curb (if facing uphill). This will create an extra barrier in case the handbrake fails.
You should also use handbrake when you are waiting at a traffic light or a stop sign for a long time. This will reduce the strain on your main brakes and transmission, and prevent your car from creeping forward or backward. To use handbrake in this situation, follow these steps:
- Stop your car and put it in neutral (for manual transmission) or drive (for automatic transmission).
- Pull up or press down the handbrake lever or button until you feel resistance.
- Keep your foot on the brake pedal until the light changes or you are ready to move.
- Release the handbrake lever or button and accelerate smoothly.
Is handbrake necessary for automatic transmission?
Some people may think that handbrake is not necessary for cars with automatic transmission, because they have a park mode that locks the transmission and prevents the car from moving. However, this is not entirely true. The park mode only locks one part of the transmission called the parking pawl, which is a small metal pin that engages with a gear. This pin can break or wear out over time, especially if there is too much weight or force on it. If this happens, the car can roll away even if it is in park mode.
Therefore, it is still advisable to use handbrake for cars with automatic transmission, especially if you are parking on a slope or a flat surface. This will provide an extra layer of security and protection for your car and others. It will also reduce the stress on your parking pawl and extend its lifespan.
Conclusion
Handbrake is a useful and important feature in cars that can prevent accidents and damage. It should be used whenever you park your car or wait at a traffic light for a long time. It is also necessary for cars with automatic transmission, as it can supplement the park mode and protect your transmission from wear and tear. By using handbrake properly and regularly, you can ensure your safety and comfort on the road.
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