What you need to know about your car parking brake
When was the last time you serviced your car’s parking brake? What about using it – can you recall the last time you put this important part into action? Regardless of whether or not you use it often, it’s important to know the ins and outs of your car parking brake so you know when it can benefit you, HOW to use it, and what you need to do to take care of it. Toyota of Clermont is here with all the answers you need straight from our auto service techs.
4 things to know about your parking brake
1. You should never drive with the parking brake on.
Driving with your car parking brake on can do major damage to your braking system. It can wear down your brake pads quickly, as well as cause excessive heat in the system that can do other types of expensive damage. You’ll typically realize pretty fast if your parking brake is on when you drive – the resistance is very noticeable. However, it’s also a good idea to check it to ensure it’s actually off before you hit the road.
2. You shouldn’t engage it before you put the car in park.
Many drivers put their car in park and then engage the parking brake. You should do the opposite! When you put the car in park and then put the brake on, it causes the car to rock back, which puts weight on the transmission. Instead, find your parking spot and put the car parking brake on before you take your foot off the brake (while the car is still running). After the brake is engaged, put your car into park and switch it off.
3. There are several different types of parking brakes.
There’s more than one type of parking brake; it varies based on your vehicle’s make and model. Some cars (like the Clermont Toyota Prius) simply have a button to engage the brake. Other cars have a hand brake. It’s located in between the driver and passenger’s seat (near your gear shifter). You engage it by pulling it up until it locks and then release it by pushing the button on the end and pushing it back down. Other cars still have a foot brake pedal. It’s located down near the accelerator and actual brake pedal, and you push it down with your left foot to engage it. To release it, you simply push down it and then let go.
4. Your parking brake needs to be maintained and adjusted.
Just like any other car part, wear and tear will take its toll on your parking brake, especially if you use it often or if your car has been sitting idle for a while. Let our Clermont Toyota service techs take a look at it so they can see if the lines need to be replaced or if corrosion has built up anywhere.
Toyota of Clermont can help you care for this important car part
If you have questions or think you need service for this essential part, call Toyota of Clermont at (352) 404-7001 or stop by and see us at 16851 State Road 50, just west of the Florida Turnpike.