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4 September 2024 How to release a stuck handbrake in a car? Best tips
The handbrake, or the parking or emergency brake, is an important safety feature on your car. It is a backup braking system in case the primary brakes fail, providing the driver with safety and control. The car parking brake is essential when you park on slopes or uneven terrain where your car’s primary brakes may not be enough to keep your car from rolling. Here we’ll take a look at this important component and what to do if it gets stuck.
Why does a handbrake get stuck?
Several factors can cause a handbrake to become stuck. Typically, corrosion or buildup on cables or the mechanism can occur over time if the car has been exposed to moisture and road salt. This corrosion can cause the handbrake cable to seize and the brake can become difficult to operate.
Another cause could be that the car has been stored for too long. It is not unheard of that the handbrake will freeze in the winter because moisture has built up. It's a good idea to engage and disengage the handbrake regularly and carry out regular maintenance to ensure it works properly when you need it.
A handbrake can also get stuck if it is pulled too hard or with excessive force. The mechanism or cable then becomes jammed or misaligned, making it tough to release. Moreover, applying too much force to the lever or button can lead to damage to its internal components, including the release button or linkage.
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How to release a stuck handbrake
If you find yourself in a situation where your car's handbrake is stuck and can’t be released, don't worry, there are a few things you can do to fix it.
Stay calm: It's important to remain calm and focused when troubleshooting a stuck handbrake. If you panic or use excessive force, it could make the situation worse or cause further damage.
Check the position: Make sure that the car is parked on a level surface and that the transmission is in the correct gear (Park for automatic transmissions or Neutral for manual transmissions) before you try to release it.
Rock the car: Gently rock the car back and forth by shifting between gears (for automatic transmissions) or engaging and disengaging the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator (for manual transmissions) to relieve pressure on the handbrake mechanism.
Apply steady pressure: Try releasing the handbrake manually by applying steady pressure to the lever or button while pressing the release button simultaneously. Avoid excessive force to prevent damage.
Lubricate the mechanism: Apply a penetrating lubricant to the car handbrake cable and mechanism to loosen any stuck components due to corrosion or rust. Allow the lubricant to penetrate for a few minutes before attempting to release the handbrake again.
How to release a stuck electronic parking brake
The procedure may vary slightly for electronic parking brakes. In most models, you can release the brake by briefly pushing the lever forward or pressing/pulling the button. The brake should automatically release when a gear is engaged and the car is lightly set in motion, with no doors open. If it remains stuck, try restarting the vehicle or cycling the ignition to reset the system.
Replacement
When replacing handbrake components, it is important that you use quality replacement parts that are compatible with the make and model of your vehicle, such as a parking brake suitable for Mercedes vehiclesHow to release a stuck handbrake in a car? Best tips. This ensures proper operation and maintains the vehicle's engineering integrity.
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