Understanding Why Your Car Feels Like the Handbrake Is On but Isn’t

Common Causes of Brake Dragging

When your car feels like the handbrake is engaged even when it isn't, you might be dealing with a variety of issues, including brake dragging. This can be caused by several factors, including:

Stuck or Dragging Handbrake: The brakes operated by the handbrake could be stuck or dragging slightly. Over time, rotors and drums can develop surface rust, which can cause dragged braking. Automatic Adjusters Issue: Sometimes, the problem lies with the automatic adjusters, which can lead to inconsistent braking effects.

Identifying and Diagnosing the Problem

To diagnose the issue, follow these steps:

Inspect the Handbrake Mechanism

Check Each Wheel: After driving, get out and feel each wheel. The warm or hot one is likely the seized brake wheel. Check for Rust Build-Up: Seized calipers often occur due to rust from old brake fluid buildup on the internal steel parts of the braking system.

Inspect the Brake Pedal and Pads

Look for Burnt Odors: If you notice a burning smell, it means the brake pads were touching during normal driving. This could be a sign of a seized caliper. Check for Excessive Heating: To measure rotor temperature, use an infrared thermometer after a short drive when not using much braking. Stuck brakes will read hot.

Solving the Problem

For issues related to the handbrake, it's best to have a professional mechanic check and fix it. If the issue is with the service brakes, here are some steps you can take:

Feel the Brake Discs: After a short drive without much braking, feel the brake discs to check for excessive heating. Alternatively, jack up each wheel and feel them to check for dragging brakes. Check for Hydraulic Issues: If the brakes are off and in neutral, this could indicate a hydraulic issue. Take your car to a brake shop for professional diagnosis.

Additional Precautions for Parked and Unused Cars

Even parked cars for more than a week may require some specific actions to ensure they're functioning correctly:

Check Tyre Pressure: Visually check the tyre pressure. If tubeless tyres are used, drive the car at low speed to fill up the tyres with air. Pump the Brakes: Before starting the vehicle, pump the brakes 7-8 times. This can help prevent brake pads from sticking. Idle the Engine: Idle the engine for at least a minute before engaging the gears. This helps in lubrication of all moving parts. Gear Transmission Lubrication: Ensure that the transmission axles and gears are properly lubricated to avoid any sticking.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your car is in good working order, even when it has been parked for extended periods.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and checking of your car's braking system can prevent issues like the sensation of a handbrake being engaged. By taking proactive measures, you can maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.