[Car Tips] Is it necessary to pull the handbrake when parking? Experts teach you the right way!
Is it necessary to pull the handbrake when parking? Experts teach you the right way!
Have you ever found yourself hesitant about whether to engage the handbrake (also known as the parking brake) after parking your car? Especially with automatic transmission cars, many people assume that simply engaging the P gear is sufficient stability, and that the handbrake can be engaged or not. What's the truth? When should you engage the handbrake? And what's the correct procedure? Today, let's share our personal experiences , from the fundamentals to practical applications.
1. What is the parking brake?
The parking brake is used to prevent the vehicle from sliding due to factors such as the tilted ground or external impact when the vehicle is parked. There are several common types of parking brakes:
- Traditional hand-pull type : the pull rod is located next to the driver's seat
- Foot-operated : Start by pressing your left foot, commonly found in some American models
- Electronic hand control : push-button type, more and more new cars are equipped with
Regardless of which one, the essence is to lock the wheels and stop the vehicle.
2. The Myth of Automatic Transmission Cars and Handbrakes
1. “Is it enough to just type P when parking an automatic transmission car?” — This is the biggest misunderstanding!
While the P gear (Parking) locks a gear in the transmission, preventing it from moving forward or backward, it 's not designed to withstand the weight of the vehicle or the pressure of a grade for extended periods . If the vehicle is parked on a slope using only the P gear, there's still a risk of the vehicle sliding, potentially damaging the transmission, if the gear is damaged or subjected to excessive force.
My personal experience:
I once parked my car on a ramp at a shopping mall, only engaging the P gear without pulling the handbrake. When I got back to the car, I heard a click; the P gear was stuck! I asked the mechanic, and he told me that prolonged stress on the transmission's parking gear can actually shorten its lifespan. From then on, I insisted on pulling the handbrake, no matter how flat the terrain.
2. "Is there no need to pull the handbrake on flat ground?" — Expert advice: It's best to pull it!
- Sometimes you think it is flat ground, but in fact the ground is slightly inclined, and the car still has a chance to slide slowly.
- When parking on the roadside, if your car is hit by other vehicles (for example, the vehicle behind you accidentally hits your car when parking in/out), your car may shift.
- Some local laws clearly stipulate that you must pull the handbrake when stopping your vehicle (e.g. Hong Kong's Road Traffic (Vehicle Registration and Licensing) Regulations).
3. Is it necessary to pull the handbrake for a manual transmission car (stick-type transmission car)?
The common driving habit for manual transmission cars is to shift into first or reverse gear before pulling the handbrake when parking . While engine compression provides some resistance, shifting alone cannot completely prevent slippage , and over time, this can damage the transmission.
4. A complete guide to correct parking steps (using automatic transmission vehicles as an example)
- Press the brake pedal hard and stop the car completely
- Pull the handbrake (parking brake)
- Shift the gear to P (Parking)
- Release the brake pedal to ensure the vehicle is not moving
- Turn off the engine, remove the key/turn off the start button
Editor's reminder:
Why pull the handbrake first, then engage P? This ensures the vehicle's weight is primarily borne by the handbrake, reducing pressure on the transmission's parking gear. If the opposite were true, the vehicle's weight would rest entirely on the P gear, which would be detrimental to the transmission in the long run.
5. Application and Misunderstanding of Electronic Hand Controls
Many new cars now come equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB), most of which lock the car with a single push. Some models also have an "Auto Hold" function. Auto Hold automatically locks the wheels when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and releases them when the vehicle starts moving, making it very convenient.
However, the electronic handbrake also needs to be actively confirmed to start . Some models will only start automatically when the engine is turned off. It is recommended to press it manually when parking normally.
Editor's opinion:
Some people think the electronic handbrake is "fully automatic," but one time, they didn't notice and the car still slipped slightly. New technology is certainly convenient, but driving habits are more important!
6. Pulling the hand lever is even more important in special circumstances
- Parking on a slope : Always pull the handbrake and consider turning the wheels towards the roadside or curb to prevent sliding.
- When parking for a long time , such as overnight, traveling, or not using the car for a long time, you must make sure the handbrake is tightened and it is best to check it occasionally.
- Inclement weather conditions: heavy rain, typhoons, etc., to prevent vehicles from being accidentally moved by water or wind.
7. What are the risks of not pulling the handbrake?
- Vehicle sliding causing property damage or personal accident <br>If the car slides and hits other vehicles, the responsibility is all yours!
- Damaged gearbox or manual transmission gear <br>The repair costs can easily range from thousands to tens of thousands of yuan, which is definitely not worth it.
- Violating the law may result in a fine <br>Hong Kong law stipulates that drivers must pull the handbrake when leaving the vehicle.
8. Common Errors and Supplementary Q&A
Q1: Will the handle become rusty and stuck when pulled?
- Modern handbrakes are designed to be durable, but they can get stuck if left unused for long periods of time or if there is excessive moisture. It is recommended to start the vehicle occasionally.
- If the hand lever is stuck, do not pull it forcibly, seek professional assistance.
Q2: Will the electronic controller suddenly malfunction?
- This is extremely rare, but it is possible if the battery is low or faulty. In this case, some models have emergency manual unlocking methods, which are detailed in the owner's manual.
Q3: Do I need to pull the handbrake for a short stop?
- If you are just waiting at a traffic light, you do not need to pull the handbrake. However, if you leave the vehicle (even briefly), you should pull the handbrake for safety reasons.
Q4: Is it useful to turn the steering wheel when parking?
- When parking on a slope, it is recommended to turn the wheels toward the roadside so that if the vehicle slides, it can get stuck to the curb to reduce the danger.
IX. International Practices and Regulations
- Hong Kong : The law clearly stipulates that you must pull the handbrake when leaving the vehicle.
- Right-hand drive areas such as the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia also generally require pulling the handbrake, which is considered a basic safety action.
- Left-hand drive countries in Europe and the United States : It is also recommended that you pull the handbrake when parking, regardless of whether the vehicle is automatic or manual.
10. Editor’s Summary and Appeal
Habit becomes nature, safety is priceless!
I used to think pulling the handbrake was a hassle, but after experiencing a few close calls, I finally realized how this simple action actually offers a significant safety benefit. Even with today's advanced automotive technology, basic driving habits are essential. Pulling the handbrake isn't just about being responsible for yourself, it's also about showing respect to other road users.
Finally, a reminder: When parking, remember to pull the handbrake first, then engage P! This simple action keeps you and me safe.
