How the Handbrake Works (Parking Brake) in Cars & How to Use It
The car handbrake is another term for the parking brake. As the name suggests, this component functions to stop the car's movement by holding the load. Even in the racing world, many drivers use this component to perform drifting or sliding actions. Before you use it, it is advisable to understand how to properly use and operate the handbrake component. For more details, please pay attention to the following review.
How the Handbrake Works
According to its operation, the handbrake is divided into two types: rear wheel brake and center brake. The rear wheel brake type only works when you pull, press, and lift the brake. When you pull, press, and lift the brake, a pulling force is generated that will be transmitted to the brake part through the parking brake cable.
In this type of handbrake, the braking force can be adjusted between the two rear wheels of the car, ensuring balance. This is possible because this type has an equalizer cable. Meanwhile, the center brake type operates like a drum brake. When you activate this type of handbrake, braking occurs at the propeller shaft and transmission.
Read Also: Note, These Are the Causes of Weak Handbrake
Tips for Proper Handbrake Use
Using the handbrake should not be done carelessly or randomly. This can lead to serious issues such as accelerating brake pad wear. Additionally, the brake pads can detach and stick to the drum. So how should this component be used correctly? For more details, consider the following tips.
1. Avoid pressing the gas pedal before releasing the brake
The first tip is that you should not press the gas pedal before releasing the brake. It is better to release the handbrake first, then press the gas pedal. This condition applies when your car is on an incline. This method will help prolong the life of the brake cable so it doesn't break easily.
2. Avoid parking the car for an extended period
The second tip is that you should not use the handbrake when parking the car for a long time. This condition can damage the handbrake and other braking system components. It is better to use the parking mode by shifting your transmission to the P position. This will not lock the wheels, is safe, and will not damage other car components.
Read Also: Tips for Maintaining Car Brakes to Keep Them Effective
3. Ensure you hear a click sound four to seven times
If you are using a stick model handbrake, you need to ensure that the handbrake clicks four to seven times when pulling the lever. If the clicks exceed this range, it indicates that the brake adjustment is not correct.
4. Avoid pulling or pressing the handbrake excessively
The next tip is that you should not pull or press the handbrake excessively. It is better to pull or press at a 45-degree angle so that the car can be locked properly.
5. Avoid using the handbrake when the car is stopped or waiting for a green light
The last tip is that you should not use the handbrake when the car is stopped, whether on the side of the road or waiting for a green light. It is better to use neutral mode when the car stops briefly to prolong the brake pad's life. This tip applies to stick, button, and pedal types of handbrakes.
These are some tips you can follow when using the handbrake. You can also use the handbrake when the road is congested due to traffic jams. This method can help maintain the performance of the braking system so it doesn't weaken due to prolonged use of the foot brake.
