Why Using Your Emergency Brake Is Crucial for Vehicle Safety

As experts in brake repair and maintenance at Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres, we cannot stress enough the importance of using your emergency brake every time you park your vehicle, even on flat surfaces. In this blog, we’ll explain why engaging the emergency brake is crucial for your safety and the longevity of your car’s brakes.

The Purpose of the Emergency Brake

The emergency or parking brake is a secondary brake system that ensures your vehicle stays in place while parked. It operates independently of your main hydraulic brakes and is typically engaged by pulling a lever, pressing a button on the console, or pressing a pedal. The emergency brake is essential for preventing your car from rolling away, especially on steep inclines or declines typical in Vancouver and other parts of British Columbia.

Preventing Wear and Tear on Your Main Brakes

When you park your car without engaging the emergency brake, the vehicle’s weight can settle onto the primary brake pads. Over time, this can lead to uneven wear and tear on the pads, reducing their effectiveness and lifespan. Using the emergency brake, you take the pressure off the main brakes, allowing them to last longer and perform better when needed.

Protecting Your Transmission

If you have an automatic transmission, parking without the emergency brake engaged can put unnecessary strain on the transmission. When the car is in park mode, the transmission’s parking pawl holds the vehicle in place. However, if the parking pawl fails or is not properly aligned, your car could roll away, potentially causing significant damage to the transmission. Using the emergency brake provides an extra layer of protection for your transmission.

Preventing Accidents and Injuries

Perhaps the most important reason to use your emergency brake is to prevent accidents and injuries. If your car is parked on a hill or incline without the brake engaged, it could roll into traffic or pedestrians, causing serious harm. Making the emergency brake a habit every time you park can help ensure your safety, that of your passengers, and that of others around you.

How to Use the Emergency Brake Properly

To use your emergency brake effectively, make sure to pull, push or press it firmly until it activates. Ensure that you hear a clicking sound. When you’re ready to drive off, release the brake by pulling, pushing or pressing it again until it disengages fully. It’s important to note that the emergency brake should not be used while driving, as it can cause the rear wheels to lock up and lead to loss of control.

At Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres, we recommend having your brakes inspected regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. Our experienced technicians can conduct a thorough brake inspection, including inspecting the pads, rotors, callipers, and emergency brake system. We can provide expert brake repair services to keep your vehicle safe and reliable if any issues are found.

In addition to brake repair and inspection, Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres offer a wide range of automotive services, including oil changes, tune-ups, and wheel alignments. Contact us today or visit one of our 15 locations across Vancouver, BC, and Alberta to keep your car running at its best. Remember, engaging the emergency brake every time you park is a simple yet effective way to protect your vehicle and keep yourself and others safe on the road.