Does Accidentally Driving with Your Handbrake On Do Any Lasting Damage?
Accidentally driving with your handbrake engaged is a common mistake that most drivers make at least once in their lifetime. Whether it stems from being in a hurry, neglecting to notice the dashboard warning, or simply forgetting to release it entirely, this blunder can potentially have consequences for your vehicle. But does it cause any lasting damage? In this article, we'll explore the effects of driving with the handbrake on and what steps you might need to take afterward.
Understanding the Handbrake
The handbrake, also known as the emergency brake or parking brake, is designed to keep the car stationary when parked. It operates independently of the main braking system and is typically engaged by pulling a lever or pressing a button that activates a cable system connected to the rear brakes.
Immediate Effects
The immediate effect of driving with the handbrake on is that the vehicle may feel sluggish and unresponsive. Depending on how tightly the handbrake is applied, you may notice some or all of these signs:
- A dragging sensation while driving.
- Odd noises, including squealing or grinding from the rear of the vehicle.
- An unusual smell, often described as burning, due to the friction and heat generated.
Potential Damage
Whether or not damage occurs often depends on how far and how fast you drive with the handbrake engaged:
- Minimal Damage: If the journey was short and at low speeds, there's a good chance that no significant damage occurred. The handbrake components might have experienced some wear, but it's often negligible.
- Moderate to Severe Damage: Prolonged driving at higher speeds can lead to overheating of the rear brakes, causing brake pads to wear out prematurely. In severe cases, this can damage the brake discs, drums, or the cable mechanism itself.
Signs of Lasting Damage
After such an incident, it is crucial to look for warning signs indicative of lasting damage:
- Persistent squealing or grinding noises while driving.
- The vehicle pulling to one side when braking.
- A spongy or unresponsive brake pedal.
- Poor performance of the handbrake or failure to hold the car on an incline.
What to Do If It Happens
If you realise you’ve been driving with the handbrake on, here’s what you should do:
- Stop Safely: Pull over safely as soon as you realise the issue.
- Inspect: Check the brakes visually if you can. Look for any noticeable signs of excessive heat or damage like smoke or a burning smell.
- Test: After letting the brakes cool down, test them by driving around a quiet, controlled area. Make sure the brakes engage and disengage properly.
- Consult a Mechanic: If anything feels amiss, or if you're unsure, have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle thoroughly to ensure all components are in good working order.
Conclusion
While driving with your handbrake on is not ideal, the consequences largely depend on how severe and prolonged the misuse was. Being mindful and acting quickly can often mitigate longer-term damages. Remember, staying alert and attentive can prevent such mishaps, and periodically checking your dashboard display for any warning lights will help you maintain your car's braking system in optimal condition.
