What is the purpose of the parking brake?

• A. To apply extra braking power while driving.
• B. To shift the transmission into park while moving.
• C. To hold the vehicle in place when parked, especially on hills.
• D. To accelerate more quickly on hills.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that the parking brake is there to hold the car in place when you’ve stopped, especially on hills. It works independently of the regular foot brakes and usually acts on the rear brakes or through an electronic mechanism to keep the vehicle from rolling. When you’re parked on an incline, engaging the parking brake adds a secure backup hold so the car won’t move even if the transmission shifts or the regular brake isn’t enough. It isn’t meant to slow or stop the car while you’re driving, and using it to brake at speed can cause loss of control or damage. You set it after you’ve come to a complete stop and then release it before you start moving again.