The parking brake is an indispensable system on every car, used to keep the vehicle stationary when parked, even on inclines. Currently, apart from some newer car models and luxury cars equipped with an electronic parking brake (EBD) system, most mainstream cars in Vietnam still use a traditional mechanical parking brake. This type of car parking brake is usually designed as a handle or pull lever located near the central armrest between the driver's and passenger's seats.
Mechanical car parking brakes are typically designed as a lever or pull handle located near the center armrest between the driver's and passenger's seats.
Photo: BH
What is the function of the mechanical parking brake button on a car?
The mechanical parking brake in a car operates using a cable mechanism connected to the rear brake system. When the parking brake lever is pulled, a ratchet mechanism holds the lever in place, preventing the car from rolling. A button at the end of the lever releases or assists this ratchet mechanism, allowing for smoother operation.
Simply put, the small button integrated into the head of the parking brake lever unlocks the latch, allowing the driver to lower the lever to release the brake. When the button is pressed, the latch releases the locking gear, allowing the brake lever to be lowered to its lowest position to release the brake. However, during the use of a mechanical car parking brake, many drivers, especially new drivers, wonder if they need to press a button to lower the parking brake. So, is it necessary to press the button when engaging the car parking brake?
Regarding this issue, according to automotive experts, drivers are not required to press the button when engaging the parking brake. In fact, many car users, including experienced drivers, habitually press the button on the top of the brake lever even when releasing or engaging the parking brake.
The small button integrated into the end of the parking brake lever unlocks the latch, allowing the driver to lower the lever to release the brake.
Photo: BH
However, according to Mr. Duong Quang Kiet, Head of the Technical Department of a garage specializing in car maintenance and repair in Binh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City: "When engaging the mechanical parking brake on a car, there's no need to press a button; the driver simply pulls the brake lever up until they feel tension and hear a 'click' sound. This is normal system operation and will not damage the parking brake."
The button at the end of the handbrake lever is primarily used to release the parking brake. To release the brake, the driver simply lifts the lever slightly, presses the button, and then slowly lowers it. Therefore, it's not necessary to press the button when pulling the lever. Besides the button on the handbrake lever, many new drivers are often startled and worried when pulling the handbrake, as it often makes a clicking sound. In reality, this clicking sound is caused by the gears engaging with the locking lever when the brake is pulled. This is normal for all mechanical parking brake systems in cars. This sound does not indicate premature damage or wear of the parts in the parking brake system, even in older vehicles.
The driver does not need to press a button when engaging the car's parking brake.
Photo: BH
Notes on using the car's parking brake
While the mechanical parking brake is relatively simple to use, technical experts emphasize that drivers must use it correctly and appropriately for each parking situation and terrain to ensure safety. If parking on a flat surface, the driver only needs to pull the parking brake just enough, avoiding pulling too hard and straining the cable. Meanwhile, when parking on a slope, the parking brake should be used in conjunction with downshifting (for manual transmissions) or shifting the gear lever to the "P" position (for automatic transmissions) to ensure safety.
Another point to note is that you shouldn't rely entirely on the parking brake for extended periods, especially when parking for several days. This can cause the brake pads to stick to the disc or drum, particularly in wet conditions. Instead, drivers should combine this with using wheel chocks or finding a suitable parking spot.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/co-can-nhan-nut-khi-keo-phanh-tay-o-to-18526042314561475.htm
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