What Is Your Emergency Brake For?

It’s designed to secure your vehicle when parked and to slow or stop the car if the primary (foot) brakes fail. Often called the parking brake or handbrake, it typically acts on the rear wheels via a mechanical cable or an electronic actuator, providing an independent way to hold or decelerate the vehicle. Modern systems add features such as automatic engagement, hill-hold assistance, and controlled emergency braking when the switch is held while moving.

Core Purposes

The emergency brake has several critical roles that go beyond its misleading name. The list below clarifies what it’s intended to do in everyday driving and in rare emergencies.

• Prevent rolling when parked: It holds the vehicle stationary, especially on slopes, and reduces strain on the transmission’s parking pawl in automatic cars.
• Provide backup stopping power: Because it is independent of the hydraulic service brakes, it can help slow or stop the car if the main system loses pressure or fails.
• Assist with hill starts and stationary holding: In traffic or on inclines, it can help keep the vehicle from creeping before you set off again, though many cars now offer separate Auto Hold functions.

These functions make the system both a daily-use safety tool for parking and a last-resort option for rare brake failures, underscoring why it should remain in good working order.

How and When to Use It Safely

When Parking

Following a consistent order when setting and releasing the parking brake reduces wear and prevents unintended movement, especially on hills.

1. Come to a complete stop on the foot brake.
2. Keep your foot on the brake and apply the parking brake fully.
3. Automatics: then shift to Park. Manuals: select first gear (uphill) or reverse (downhill). EVs: confirm Park is engaged.
4. On hills: turn wheels toward the curb when facing downhill; away from the curb when uphill (and let the tire gently touch the curb if applicable).
5. When leaving: press the foot brake, select gear/Drive, then release the parking brake to avoid a sudden roll and stress on the transmission.

This sequence helps the parking brake, not the transmission, carry the vehicle’s weight and reduces the risk of roll-away.

In a True Emergency While Moving

If the primary brakes fail or fade, the emergency brake can help slow you down. Technique depends on whether your vehicle has a traditional handbrake or an electronic parking brake (EPB).

1. Keep both hands steady on the wheel, activate hazards if possible, and look for a safe stopping area.
2. Downshift (or use lower gears) to maximize engine braking if conditions allow.
3. EPB: pull and hold the parking-brake switch. On many models, the system uses ABS/ESC to modulate braking and prevent wheel lock; releasing the switch typically releases the braking. Behavior varies—know your vehicle’s manual.
4. Mechanical handbrake: lift the lever gradually and steadily. Avoid a hard yank that can lock the rear wheels; if they lock, ease off slightly. Keep the wheels as straight as possible.
5. Once slowed, steer to the shoulder or a safe area and come to a full stop, then secure the vehicle.

This is a last-resort maneuver. Understanding how your specific system behaves—and practicing the right sequence mentally—can make a critical difference in an emergency.

What Not to Do

Misuse can damage components or lead to a loss of control. The points below highlight common mistakes to avoid.

• Don’t use the parking brake to slow the car during normal driving or at high speed.
• Don’t apply it while cornering; sudden rear-wheel braking can cause a skid or spin.
• Don’t drive with it partially engaged; this overheats brakes and accelerates wear.
• In freezing conditions, avoid setting it immediately after washing or heavy rain without a short drying drive; cables or pads can freeze to the drums/rotors.
• Don’t rely solely on the transmission’s Park on slopes; always set the parking brake as well.
• Don’t pull EPB fuses or disconnect the battery while the EPB is engaged; some systems may stay locked until released properly.

Steering clear of these pitfalls preserves control and reduces the risk of expensive repairs.

Modern Systems: Electronic Parking Brakes and Assist Features

Electronic parking brakes are increasingly common and can add automation and emergency functionality. However, features differ by brand and model year, so your owner’s manual is the final word.

The list below outlines behaviors you’re likely to encounter with contemporary EPB-equipped vehicles.

• Auto-apply: some cars set the parking brake when you shut off the engine or open the door while unbelted.
• Auto-release: many systems release automatically when you press the accelerator with the seatbelt fastened and foot brake depressed.
• Dynamic emergency braking: holding the EPB switch while moving may command ABS/ESC-controlled braking to help maintain stability.
• Auto Hold: a separate feature that uses the service brakes to keep the car stopped in traffic; it’s not a substitute for setting the parking brake when you park.
• Power loss procedures: manufacturers provide specific steps (e.g., manual release cables or external power) if the 12V battery is dead; follow the manual to avoid damage.

Because implementations vary, reviewing your vehicle’s instructions ensures you’ll know exactly how your EPB behaves in daily use and emergencies.

Maintenance and Checks

Consistent upkeep keeps the system ready for both routine parking and rare emergencies. These practices help prevent corrosion, seizure, and misadjustment.

• Use the parking brake regularly to keep cables and mechanisms free-moving.
• Have brake travel/tension checked at scheduled service; adjust drums/cables or service rear caliper mechanisms as needed.
• For EPBs, place the system in service mode before rear pad replacement and maintain a healthy 12V battery to avoid actuator faults.
• After wet, salty, or slushy drives, apply light braking before parking to dry rotors and reduce sticking.
• Investigate warning lights, grinding noises, or increased lever travel promptly.

Proactive maintenance preserves the brake’s holding power and ensures emergency functionality when it’s needed most.

Special Notes for Different Vehicles

Best practices can change with the drivetrain and vehicle type. The points below cover common variations.

• Manual transmissions: park in gear plus set the parking brake; choose first gear uphill, reverse downhill, per your manual.
• Automatics: on slopes, set the parking brake before shifting to Park to reduce load on the parking pawl.
• EVs and hybrids: regenerative braking does not hold a parked car; always engage Park and set the parking brake if equipped.
• Heavy trucks/buses: parking brakes are spring-applied air systems; procedures differ significantly—commercial drivers should follow CDL training and the vehicle manual.

Matching technique to your specific vehicle improves safety and reduces mechanical stress.

Bottom Line

The emergency brake—better termed the parking brake—secures your vehicle when parked and provides an independent way to slow or stop in a brake failure. Use it every time you park, know how your specific system behaves in motion, avoid misuse that risks rear-wheel lockup, and keep it maintained. Those habits ensure the system is ready for everyday safety and rare emergencies alike.

Why would you use your emergency brake?

Your primary brakes work through a hydraulic system and are meant to slow your car to a stop. The emergency brake, on the other hand, is designed to hold your car in place. However, if your primary brakes fail, you can use the emergency brake to slow down and stop your car.

Is it bad if I accidentally drove with my e-brake on?

Driving with the emergency brake engaged can overheat brake components, causing warped rotors or damaged pads. A brake pedal that sinks to the floor often indicates a master cylinder leak or air in the brake lines. Start by checking brake fluid levels and inspecting for leaks around the master cylinder and brake lines.

Can I use my emergency brake to stop?

Yes, you can use your emergency (parking) brake to stop your car in a genuine emergency, such as a primary brake failure. However, apply the brake gradually and smoothly to avoid locking the rear wheels, which can cause a skid. For electronic parking brakes, hold the button to engage it, and for cable-operated (hand) brakes, progressively apply pressure while holding the release button. 
Steps to Stop with an Emergency Brake

1. Recognize the emergency: Your regular brakes are not working, or you are in a situation where a sudden stop is needed. 
2. Keep your foot off the gas: Take your foot off the accelerator. 
3. Apply the emergency brake gradually: 
   • For cable-operated (hand) brakes: Hold down the button on the handle and pull up the lever with increasing pressure, feeling for the car to slow down. 
   • For electronic parking brakes: Press and hold the button to engage the brakes, applying consistent pressure. 
4. Hold the release button: For cable-operated brakes, you must hold the button to control the amount of braking force. 
5. Adjust pressure to maintain control: If you feel the car start to skid, ease up on the brake pressure slightly. You want to be on the threshold of skidding to achieve maximum stopping power without losing control. 

Important Considerations

• It’s a secondary system: The emergency brake is designed to bring the car to a stop and as a parking brake, but it is much less effective than your primary braking system. 
• Risk of skidding: Pulling the brake too hard can lock the rear wheels, causing a loss of control and a skid. 
• Check your vehicle manual: For electronic parking brakes, consult your car’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to use it in an emergency. 
• Keep it working: Regularly using your emergency brake for parking helps prevent cables from corroding and keeps the system ready for an actual emergency. 

What is the purpose of emergency braking?

The emergency brake, also known as the parking brake, serves two primary functions: it provides a secondary, purely mechanical braking system to stop a car if the primary hydraulic brakes fail, and it secures a parked vehicle to prevent it from rolling. It works by engaging the rear brakes via a cable system (or electronically in newer cars), providing stability and preventing the transmission from being stressed on inclines.
 
This video demonstrates how the emergency brake system works in a car: 55sspeedkar99YouTube · Nov 4, 2019
Two Main Functions

1. Emergency Backup System: The emergency brake is a fallback for when the main hydraulic brakes fail. It’s a purely mechanical system (though electronic versions exist) connected to the rear brakes, allowing you to slow down and stop the car if the hydraulic system malfunctions. 
2. Parking Brake: This is the most common use, where the emergency brake is applied to keep the car stationary when parked. 
   • Stability and Stress Reduction: Engaging the parking brake, even on flat surfaces, adds stability and prevents the car from rolling. On inclines, it takes the stress off the transmission’s parking pawl, which can wear out under load, extending the life of the automatic transmission. 

This video shows the right way to use a parking brake: 57sAround The HomeYouTube · Jun 7, 2022
Types of Emergency Brakes

• Hand Lever: Opens in new tabA traditional lever, usually between the front seats, that you pull up to engage and push a button to release. 
• Foot Pedal: Opens in new tabA pedal located in the driver’s footwell; you press it to engage and a separate lever or another press to disengage. 
• Electronic Parking Brake (EPB): Opens in new tabA modern button-activated system found in many new cars, often with features like auto-hold that keep the brake on until you accelerate. 

This video explains how to use the handbrake in a car: 56sHelpful DIYYouTube · May 30, 2022
When to Use It 

• When Parking: Opens in new tabAlways engage the parking brake when you park, regardless of whether it’s a hill or a flat lot.
• While Working on the Car: Opens in new tabEngage it for safety when performing maintenance, especially on the wheels or brakes.
• During Transport: Opens in new tabUse it for stability when your vehicle is being transported on a flatbed truck.