At a Glance
- When parked on an incline, the parking brake holds the vehicle in place, preventing it from rolling forward or backward due to gravity.
- In case of a primary brake system failure, the parking brake can be used as an emergency backup to slow down or stop the vehicle.
- This type uses a cable or lever to mechanically engage the brake pads or shoes against the brake discs or drums.
What is parking brake engaged? The parking brake, also known as the emergency brake or handbrake, is a crucial safety feature in your vehicle. It prevents your car from rolling away when parked on an incline or uneven surface. Understanding how to engage and release the parking brake is essential for safe driving. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of parking brake engagement, its importance, and best practices for its use.
Importance of Parking Brake Engagement
Engaging the parking brake serves several critical purposes:
- Prevents Unintended Vehicle Movement: When parked on an incline, the parking brake holds the vehicle in place, preventing it from rolling forward or backward due to gravity.
- Secures the Vehicle During Maintenance: Engaging the parking brake ensures that the vehicle remains stationary during maintenance or repairs, preventing it from moving accidentally.
- Provides Emergency Braking: In case of a primary brake system failure, the parking brake can be used as an emergency backup to slow down or stop the vehicle.
Types of Parking Brakes
There are two main types of parking brakes:
- Mechanical Parking Brake: This type uses a cable or lever to mechanically engage the brake pads or shoes against the brake discs or drums. It is typically operated by a hand lever located between the driver’s seat and the center console.
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB): This type uses an electric motor to engage the parking brake. It is typically operated by a button or switch on the dashboard or center console.
How to Engage the Parking Brake
Mechanical Parking Brake:
1. Locate the hand lever between the driver’s seat and the center console.
2. Pull up on the lever until you feel resistance.
3. Continue pulling until the lever is fully engaged (usually 3-5 clicks).
4. Release the lever and ensure that the parking brake indicator light on the dashboard illuminates.
Electronic Parking Brake:
1. Locate the parking brake button or switch on the dashboard or center console.
2. Press the button or switch once.
3. The parking brake will engage automatically.
4. Ensure that the parking brake indicator light on the dashboard illuminates.
How to Release the Parking Brake
Mechanical Parking Brake:
1. Locate the hand lever between the driver’s seat and the center console.
2. Press the release button on the lever.
3. Push down on the lever until it is fully released.
4. The parking brake indicator light on the dashboard should turn off.
Electronic Parking Brake:
1. Locate the parking brake button or switch on the dashboard or center console.
2. Press the button or switch again.
3. The parking brake will release automatically.
4. The parking brake indicator light on the dashboard should turn off.
Best Practices for Parking Brake Use
- Always engage the parking brake when parking on an incline or uneven surface.
- Do not rely solely on the parking brake to hold the vehicle in place. Use the parking brake in conjunction with the gear selector (Park for automatic transmissions or first gear for manual transmissions).
- Do not leave the parking brake engaged while driving, as this can damage the brake pads or shoes.
- Regularly check the parking brake system for any signs of wear or damage.
- If you experience any issues with the parking brake, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Troubleshooting Common Parking Brake Issues
- Parking Brake Won’t Engage: Check the parking brake cable or linkage for damage or obstructions. If the cable or linkage is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
- Parking Brake Won’t Release: Check the parking brake release button or switch for damage or malfunction. If the button or switch is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
- Parking Brake Indicator Light Stays On: This indicates that the parking brake is still engaged. Ensure that the parking brake is fully released and that there are no obstructions preventing the brake from releasing.
- Parking Brake Makes a Grinding Noise: This indicates that the parking brake pads or shoes are worn or damaged. It is important to have the parking brake system inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
Conclusion: The Importance of Parking Brake Engagement
Engaging the parking brake is a crucial safety practice that helps prevent unintended vehicle movement and ensures the safety of the driver, passengers, and others around the vehicle. Understanding how to engage and release the parking brake correctly is essential for responsible driving. By following the best practices outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your parking brake is working properly and that your vehicle remains secure when parked.
FAQ
Q: What happens if I leave the parking brake engaged while driving?
A: Leaving the parking brake engaged while driving can damage the brake pads or shoes and cause overheating of the brake system.
Q: How often should I check the parking brake system?
A: It is recommended to have the parking brake system inspected by a qualified mechanic at least once a year or as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Q: What are the signs of a worn or damaged parking brake system?
A: Signs of a worn or damaged parking brake system include difficulty engaging or releasing the brake, a grinding noise when the brake is engaged, or a parking brake indicator light that stays on even when the brake is released.
