Everything You Need to Know About Your Emergency Brake

When it comes to a car’s emergency brake, oftentimes new and experienced drivers don’t know how or when to use it. However, the emergency brake is very important for the safety of you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road, and can even play a part in increasing the life of your vehicle’s transmission. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about your emergency brake.

The Importance of Emergency Brakes

There are several reasons why your emergency brake is important. Not only does engaging the emergency brake give your car added stability and keep your car from rolling down hills, it also allows you to stop your vehicle in the event of primary brake failure and even helps extend the useful life of your transmission.

How to Use Your Emergency Brake

To use your emergency brake, use your primary brakes to bring your vehicle to a complete stop. Once your vehicle is fully stopped, set the emergency brake. Once the emergency brake is set, put your car in park, and turn off the motor. Releasing the brake pedal or engaging your emergency brake after putting your car in park forces your transmission to hold your vehicle in place, putting the transmission through unnecessary wear and tear. Note, besides protecting your transmission, engaging your parking brake every time you park gives your car added stability and mitigates the risk of rust. This decreases the risk that your emergency brake will fail to function properly in the event of an emergency.

How to Use Your Emergency Brake During an Emergency

If your primary brakes fail while you’re driving, don’t panic. Engage the emergency brake slowly until your vehicle comes to a complete stop. Applying the emergency brake abruptly can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

When You Should Use Your Emergency Brake

There are many circumstances under which the use of your emergency brake is appropriate. For example, you probably know you should use your emergency brake when you are parking uphill or downhill. That said, your emergency brake should be used every time you park to keep it in good condition and help stop your car when your primary brakes fail.

Contact Our Brake Repair Experts

Your brakes, including your emergency brake, are essential to your safety. If you're having any issues with your primary or emergency brakes, it is important to bring your car into an auto repair shop near you as soon as possible. To learn more about our brake repair and replacement services at Custom Complete Automotive, contact us today!