What Happens If You Drive With The Handbrake On

What Happens If You Drive with the Handbrake On? A Comprehensive Guide

Driving with the handbrake engaged is a serious mistake that can lead to a range of problems, from minor inconvenience to significant damage to your vehicle and even dangerous accidents. This comprehensive guide explores the various consequences of driving with the handbrake on, explaining the mechanics involved and offering advice on how to avoid this potentially hazardous situation.

The Immediate Effects of Driving with the Handbrake Engaged

The most immediate effect of driving with your handbrake engaged is increased resistance. Your car's wheels will struggle to turn, leading to a noticeable lack of responsiveness. You'll feel a strong pulling sensation, and the car will be difficult to steer and control. The severity of this effect depends on several factors, including:

• Type of handbrake: Older vehicles with cable-operated handbrakes often experience more dramatic effects than newer cars with electric parking brakes.
• Vehicle weight: Heavier vehicles will resist movement more strongly.
• Road surface: Driving on a steep incline will dramatically increase the resistance.
• Speed: Attempting to drive at higher speeds with the handbrake engaged will exacerbate the issues.

The tell-tale signs:

• Unusual resistance when steering: The steering wheel feels heavy and difficult to turn.
• Burning smell: The intense friction between the brake pads and rotors or drums will generate significant heat, leading to a distinctive burning smell. This is a clear warning sign.
• Unusual sounds: Grinding or squealing noises from the rear wheels or brakes are common indicators.
• Reduced vehicle speed: The car will struggle to accelerate and maintain speed.

The Damage Caused by Driving with the Handbrake Engaged

Driving with the handbrake on can cause a cascade of damage to several crucial vehicle components:

1. Brake System Damage:

This is arguably the most significant damage. The prolonged and excessive heat generated by the constantly engaged handbrake can lead to:

• Overheated brake pads and rotors/drums: Extreme heat can cause brake pads to warp or even shatter, and rotors or drums to overheat and warp. This requires expensive replacement.
• Brake cable damage (cable-operated handbrakes): The constant tension can stretch or even snap the brake cable, requiring repairs or replacement.
• Brake fluid damage: Sustained high temperatures can damage the brake fluid, compromising its effectiveness.

2. Tire Damage:

The friction created by the handbrake can lead to uneven wear and tear on your tires. This can be particularly noticeable on the rear tires, depending on your vehicle's brake system configuration. In severe cases, tire damage can lead to:

• Uneven tire wear: This reduces tire life and compromises handling and stability.
• Blown tires: In extreme scenarios, the excessive heat and friction could cause tire blowouts.

3. Transmission Damage:

Continuously forcing the vehicle to move despite the resistance from the engaged handbrake can put significant strain on your transmission. This can lead to:

• Transmission overheating: This can shorten the lifespan of the transmission and lead to costly repairs.
• Gearbox failure: In extreme situations, the constant strain could damage or even destroy the transmission system.

4. Wheel Bearing Damage:

The strain and heat generated can also impact the wheel bearings. This can lead to:

• Premature wheel bearing failure: This requires replacement of the wheel bearings.

The Safety Risks of Driving with the Handbrake On

Beyond the mechanical damage, driving with the handbrake engaged poses significant safety risks:

• Loss of control: The reduced steering responsiveness and difficulty in braking make it considerably harder to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Skidding: The sudden release of the handbrake, whether accidental or intentional, can cause the vehicle to skid, resulting in loss of control.
• Collisions: Reduced responsiveness makes it challenging to react to unexpected situations or avoid collisions.
• Increased stopping distance: While the handbrake can aid braking, using it inappropriately while driving will not effectively shorten stopping distance. In fact, it may lead to longer stopping distances and loss of control.

What to Do If You Accidentally Engage the Handbrake While Driving

If you accidentally engage the handbrake while driving, the first priority is to remain calm. Quickly and smoothly release the handbrake. Avoid sudden or jerky movements. Gently steer the car to safety, ideally pulling over to the side of the road.

Once you're safely stopped, assess the situation. Check for any immediate damage, such as burning smells or unusual sounds. If there's significant damage or if you feel unsure about the vehicle's condition, avoid driving further and call for roadside assistance.

How to Avoid Driving with the Handbrake Engaged

Prevention is key. Here are some simple steps to avoid accidentally driving with the handbrake on:

• Double-check before driving: Make a habit of checking that the handbrake is released before you drive away. This should become a subconscious part of your pre-driving routine.
• Listen to your car: Pay attention to any unusual sounds or resistance while driving. If you notice something is amiss, investigate immediately.
• Regular vehicle maintenance: Regular servicing and inspections can help detect potential problems with the brake system before they become major issues.
• Proper handbrake use: Understand how your handbrake operates and use it correctly, only for parking and stationary situations.
• Understand your car's features: Familiarise yourself with the operation of your vehicle's electronic parking brake system if applicable.

Conclusion: The Importance of Safe Driving Practices

Driving with the handbrake engaged is a serious mistake that can have severe consequences. The potential for mechanical damage, safety risks, and costly repairs emphasizes the importance of responsible and attentive driving practices. By understanding the dangers and taking preventative measures, you can protect your vehicle, your safety, and the safety of others on the road. Remember, always double-check before driving and prioritize safe driving habits. This simple precaution can save you from costly repairs and potential accidents.