In what situations should you never use the parking brake?
The braking system is one of the most important features of a car, and because it's for the safety of the driver and passengers, you need to know when to use it.
Here are three situations where you should never use the parking brake.
There are some situations where using the parking brake is necessary because it's useful.
According to Reader's Digest, there are many reasons why you might need to use the parking brake, also known as the emergency brake. This includes when parking and in emergency situations, especially when the foot brake frequently malfunctions or doesn't work properly.
Additionally, there are other situations where you might need to use the parking brake, such as when servicing your car.
When your car is being serviced, it should be used to "relieve stress on the drivetrain." It can also keep you and the mechanic safe during the service.
Alternatively, you can use the parking brake when you or someone else is changing a car tire, as it will keep the wheel from spinning.
Do not use the parking brake in snow or rain.
There are three situations in which a driver should not use the parking brake, and two of those relate to weather conditions.
Using the parking brake in snowy or rainy weather can cause the rear wheels to lock up, making it more difficult for the driver to control the vehicle.
Drivers need to maintain good control of their vehicles in adverse weather conditions, so using the handbrake can lead to unforeseen disasters.
Do not use the parking brake in freezing weather.
Similarly, when it's extremely cold for an extended period, you shouldn't use the parking brake, or even use it for parking.
According to Reader's Digest, extremely cold temperatures can cause emergency brake cables to freeze. If they freeze, drivers will be unable to remove them.
Therefore, drivers should not attempt to drive in icy conditions, as it will lead to loss of control.
In snowy, freezing weather, you can wait for the brake cable creases to thaw, and they will function normally again.
If the driver can't wait, they can jack up the car and warm up the frozen brake lines with a hairdryer or similar tool.
Do not use the parking brake when you are driving normally.
When driving normally and nothing is happening, you should not use the parking brake. This is called "pressing the brake pedal" and it's an easy way to shorten your car's lifespan. It causes friction on the brake pads and leads to increased heat, a temperature that can cause the brake fluid to boil.
If the brake fluid is boiling, it won't function correctly, meaning your brakes won't work properly.
Most people, while driving, will press the brake pedal because they won't be using the handbrake. An easy way to prevent this is to avoid engaging the handbrake while driving.
