“Master in the Hand Brake is mastering control over your vehicle.”
Whether you’re a new driver or someone who has been driving for years, understanding how to use the hand brake in cars is essential for your safety and your vehicle’s longevity. In India, where roads can be unpredictable and parking spaces are tight, knowing how to properly apply the vehicle hand brake can save you from unnecessary trouble.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the hand brake in cars in a simple and easy-to-understand way, even if you are reading at a 4th-grade level. By the end, you’ll feel confident in using your car’s hand brake correctly.
What Is a Hand Brake in Cars?
The hand brake, also known as the parking brake or emergency brake, is a special brake system in your car that helps keep your vehicle stationary when parked. It is usually a lever located between the driver and passenger seat, or sometimes a pedal near the footwell.
Why do cars have a hand brake?
- To stop the car from rolling when parked on slopes or flat surfaces.
- To provide additional braking in emergencies if the main brakes fail.
- To help during certain driving manoeuvres, like hill starts.
Why Is Using the Hand Brake Important?
You might think just putting your car in gear or parking mode is enough. But without applying the hand brake, your car can slowly roll away, especially on slopes, risking accidents and damage.
According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, India (2019), around 30% of road accidents in hilly areas happen due to vehicles rolling back or slipping while parking or starting on slopes. Proper use of the hand brake in cars can prevent many of these incidents.
Remember: The hand brake keeps your car firmly parked and safe.
Types of Hand Brakes in Cars
In India, you’ll mostly find two types of hand brakes:
- Manual Hand Brake (Lever Type): This is the most common type in Indian cars. You pull up the lever to engage the brake and push a button to release it.
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB): This is a newer system found in luxury or modern cars, operated by a button instead of a lever. EPB electronically applies the parking brake.
How to Use the Hand Brake in Cars - Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Stop Your Car Completely
Before applying the hand brake, make sure your car is completely stopped.
Step 2: Press the Foot Brake
Keep your foot on the main brake pedal to avoid the car rolling.
Step 3: Engage the Hand Brake
- For manual hand brake: Pull the lever upward until you feel resistance and the car is securely locked.
- For the electronic hand brake: Press the EPB button until you hear a sound or see an indicator light on your dashboard.
Step 4: Shift the Gear to Parking Mode
- If you drive an automatic car, shift the gear to ‘P’ (Parking).
- If you drive a manual car, put the gear in 1st or reverse gear (depending on the slope direction).
Step 5: Release the Foot Brake Slowly
Now you can take your foot off the brake pedal, and your car should remain stationary.
When Should You Use the Hand Brake?
- When parking your car, always use the hand brake to prevent rolling.
- On slopes or hills: Always engage the hand brake.
- Traffic jams: When stopped for long periods.
- Emergency stopping: If your main brakes fail, you can slowly use the hand brake to stop safely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Hand Brake
1. Not Using the Hand Brake When Parking
Many drivers forget to pull up the hand brake, especially in flat areas, but this is risky.
2. Using Only the Hand Brake to Stop While Driving
Hand brakes are not designed to stop the vehicle during normal driving; only use the foot brakes.
3. Forgetting to Release the Hand Brake Before Driving
Driving with the hand brake engaged can damage your car's brake system.
4. Pulling the Hand Brake Too Hard
You should pull it firmly but not with excessive force.
Tips to Maintain Your Vehicle's Hand Brake
- Regularly check the hand brake tension. If it feels too loose or too tight, get it adjusted.
- Use the hand brake every time you park. This prevents the cable from sticking or rusting.
- Don’t rely solely on the hand brake for stopping. It’s an additional safety measure.
- For electronic parking brakes, follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance.
How to Release the Hand Brake Properly
- For manual hand brakes: Hold the lever, press the button on top, and gently lower it.
- For electronic hand brakes: Press the release button or press the accelerator (depending on the car model).
Always make sure the hand brake is fully released before you start driving.
Using the Hand Brake in a Manual Car
Driving a manual car requires some extra care with the hand brake:
- When parking on a slope, use the hand brake and put the gear in reverse if parking uphill, or first gear if parking downhill.
- When starting on a hill, use the hand brake to hold the car while you press the accelerator and release the clutch slowly.
You May Also Like to Read this Article - The Safest Cars In India According to Bharat NCAP
Safety Notes on Using the Hand Brake
- Always engage the hand brake after parking, even on flat roads.
- Check the hand brake indicator on your dashboard — if it stays on while driving, get your brake system checked immediately.
- Don’t leave your car without ensuring the hand brake is engaged — this is especially important if children are around.
How Do You Know if Your Hand Brake Needs Repair?
- The lever feels loose or pulls up very high.
- The car rolls even after engaging the hand brake.
- You hear unusual noises when applying or releasing the hand brake.
- The hand brake warning light stays on even when released.
If you notice any of these, visit a trusted mechanic or service centre immediately.
Hand Brake Myths Debunked
- Myth 1: The Hand brake is only for parking.
Fact: It can be used in emergencies and during hill starts. - Myth 2: You don’t need to use the hand brake in automatic cars.
Fact: Always use the hand brake; it gives extra safety. - Myth 3: The Hand brake damages the car if used regularly.
Fact: Using the hand brake regularly keeps the system healthy and prevents rust.
How Hand Brake Usage Differs Across Popular Indian Cars
- Maruti Suzuki Alto: Has a manual hand brake lever, very easy to use.
- Hyundai i20: Some models come with electronic parking brakes.
- Tata Nexon: Manual hand brake with adjustable tension.
- Honda City: Some newer models have electronic hand brakes.
Check your car’s manual to understand the hand brake system in your specific model.
Fun Fact About Hand Brakes
Did you know? The hand brake was invented in the early 1900s when cars didn’t have reliable foot brakes! Today, it remains an important safety feature even with advanced braking systems.
FAQS
1. What is a hand brake in a car?
The hand brake is a special brake you pull or press to keep your car still when parked. It stops your car from rolling away.
2. When should I use the hand brake?
You should use it every time you park your car, especially on hills or slopes, to keep your car safe and still.
3. Can I use the hand brake to stop my car while driving?
No, the hand brake is only for parking or emergencies. Use the foot brake to stop your car while driving.
4. How do I know if my hand brake is working properly?
If the lever feels loose or your car rolls even after pulling the hand brake, then it may need fixing.
5. What happens if I forget to release the hand brake before driving?
Driving with the hand brake on can damage your car’s brakes and make driving difficult. Always release it before moving.
Conclusion
Using the hand brake in cars is not just about parking; it’s about controlling your vehicle safely. Whether you drive in busy Mumbai traffic or park on the hills of Ooty, knowing how to use the hand brake properly can keep you, your passengers, and your car safe.
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