How to Use the Emergency Brake

Use the emergency (parking) brake to secure a parked vehicle and, in a true braking failure while driving, apply it gradually to slow down—never yank it at speed. In most modern cars, press and hold the electronic parking brake switch to trigger controlled braking; with a manual lever, lift gently while pressing the release button to modulate force. Below is a clear, safety-first guide for different brake types, when to use them, and what to do in real emergencies.

What the Emergency Brake Is—and When It’s Meant to Be Used

The emergency brake (also called the parking brake or handbrake) is an independent mechanical or electronically controlled system, usually acting on the rear wheels. It’s designed primarily to hold a stationary vehicle, especially on inclines. It can also help bring a moving vehicle to a stop if the primary hydraulic brakes fail. Because abrupt rear-wheel lockup can cause a skid or spin, the emergency brake should be applied progressively while the vehicle is moving.

Identify Your Brake Type and Basic Operation

Vehicles use different mechanisms for their emergency/parking brake. The following list explains the common types and how to operate them safely.

• Manual lever (between the front seats): To set, pull the lever up until it holds. To release, lift slightly, press and hold the release button, then lower the lever. While moving in an emergency, you can lift the lever gently while holding the release button to apply braking smoothly.
• Foot pedal (to the left of the main pedals): To set, press the pedal until it clicks. To release, pull the adjacent handle or press the pedal again (varies by model). Many foot-operated systems are harder to modulate while moving—use with extreme care.
• Electronic parking brake (EPB) switch: To set when parked, pull up or press the switch (icon: “P” with a circle). To release, press the brake pedal and push/lower the switch. In many modern cars, pulling and holding the switch while moving commands controlled rear braking; the vehicle may apply ABS-like modulation. Behavior varies—check your owner’s manual.

Knowing which system you have—and how it behaves—reduces the risk of skids and ensures you can use it confidently in both routine parking and rare emergencies.

Using the Emergency Brake While Driving—Only in a Real Emergency

If your primary brakes fail or the pedal goes to the floor, you need a controlled, step-by-step approach to slow down without losing control. Follow these steps in order.

1. Stay calm, signal, and steer straight. Activate hazard lights and move toward the right shoulder (or a safe runoff area) with smooth steering inputs.
2. Use engine braking first. Downshift through the gears (automatic: manually select lower gears if possible; manual: step down one gear at a time) to let the engine slow the vehicle.
3. Apply the emergency brake progressively.
   – EPB: pull and hold the switch to engage controlled braking; keep steering straight and be ready to modulate by releasing if the rear starts to slide.
   – Manual lever: lift gently while holding the release button for smooth, incremental force; avoid a hard yank that can lock the rear wheels.
   – Foot pedal: press gradually, watching for rear lockup; release and reapply as needed to maintain control.
4. Use terrain to your advantage. Aim for an uphill grade or a safe curb/shoulder to scrub speed if available.
5. Do not switch off the ignition at speed. You could lose power steering and power assist. If needed, switch to accessory mode only to prevent steering lock (consult your manual).
6. Once stopped, secure the vehicle. Set the parking brake fully, place the transmission in Park (automatic) or first gear (manual), turn wheels toward the curb on hills, and call for assistance. Do not drive until the brake system is inspected.

This sequence prioritizes stability: engine braking and careful emergency brake modulation help prevent rear-wheel lockup and loss of control.

Using the Emergency Brake for Parking

Setting the parking brake every time you park helps prevent vehicle roll-away and keeps mechanisms exercised, which can reduce seizing—especially in wet or cold climates.

• On level ground: After stopping, hold the service brake, shift to Park (automatic) or neutral (manual), set the parking brake, then release the service brake. Manual: after setting, select first gear (or reverse if downhill).
• Uphill with a curb: Turn front wheels away from the curb. Set the parking brake before releasing the service brake.
• Downhill with a curb: Turn front wheels toward the curb. Set the parking brake before releasing the service brake.
• On grades without a curb: Point wheels toward the road edge. Always set the parking brake and leave the transmission in Park or in gear.
• EPB auto-hold features: Some vehicles offer auto-hold at stops and auto-apply on shutdown; confirm settings in the infotainment menu and your manual.

These habits reduce reliance on the transmission’s parking pawl, add redundancy, and lower the risk of roll-away incidents.

Key Safety Dos and Don’ts

Misuse of the emergency brake can cause loss of control or damage. Keep these points in mind.

• Do apply the emergency brake progressively while moving; don’t yank it at speed.
• Do hold the release button on a manual lever for smoother modulation in an emergency.
• Don’t drive with the parking brake engaged; watch for warning lights and sluggish acceleration.
• Do practice locating and operating your brake type in a safe, empty lot so you’re prepared.
• Don’t rely solely on “Park” on hills; always set the parking brake.
• Do consult your owner’s manual for EPB-specific emergency-braking behavior and any overrides.

Following these guidelines helps you stop safely when it matters and avoid avoidable wear or dangerous skids.

Electronic Parking Brakes: What’s Different

Modern EPB systems often provide controlled emergency braking when you pull and hold the switch while moving. The car’s computer may pulse the rear brakes and even flash hazards. However, behavior differs by brand and model, and some vehicles limit braking force or require the brake pedal to be pressed. Low 12V battery conditions can also affect EPB operation. Always review the emergency-braking section of your owner’s manual.

After an Emergency Stop

Once safely stopped, the following quick checks help protect you and your vehicle and ensure reliable braking going forward.

• Call roadside assistance and have the brake system inspected immediately.
• Check for overheating or smoke near wheels; avoid touching hot components.
• If you used the EPB heavily, allow a cool-down period; overheated pads can fade.
• Document the incident for service records; note warning lights or messages.

Prompt inspection is essential—root causes may include fluid leaks, master cylinder failure, overheated pads, or electronic faults.

On Trains and Subways: Using the Emergency Brake Handle

Public transit cars often have an emergency brake handle or button. Rules vary, but misuse can be dangerous and illegal. Use it only when there is a genuine, immediate danger.

• Pull only for life-threatening emergencies (e.g., a person trapped in doors, a fire, or a medical crisis with no other way to alert staff).
• Expect the train to stop at the next safe location; operators may delay a tunnel stop for safety.
• Report the reason to the operator/intercom immediately after activation.
• Know that misuse can incur fines or prosecution and may endanger others.

Transit agencies prioritize controlled stops; use onboard intercoms or emergency call buttons first when available and appropriate.

Maintenance Tips for a Reliable Emergency Brake

Regular care ensures the emergency brake works when you need it most.

• Have cables, rear calipers/drums, and EPB actuators inspected at routine service intervals.
• Use the parking brake regularly to prevent corrosion and seizing, especially in wet/salty climates.
• Avoid washing or storing the vehicle with the brake set after heavy rain/ice; pads can freeze to rotors.
• For EPB-equipped cars, use service mode procedures during brake work to avoid actuator damage—this is typically a technician task.

Preventive maintenance reduces failure risk and preserves consistent braking performance.

Summary

The emergency brake is a vital backup and a daily parking tool. When parked, set it every time—especially on hills. In motion, use it only for true emergencies: steer straight, downshift to use engine braking, and apply the emergency brake progressively (or hold the EPB switch) to avoid rear lockup. Know your brake type, practice safe operation, and keep the system maintained so it’s ready when you need it.