The Parking Brake: Your Car's Most Underrated Safety Feature (Don't Ignore It!)
NaTasha Brand • May 30, 2025
Use It or (Literally) Lose It
Here at Ric Henry's Auto Service in San Angelo, we've got a bone to pick with parking brakes. No, really—these unsung heroes get ignored more than the terms and conditions on your phone updates. But guess what? That little lever or pedal could be the difference between your car staying put and it taking an unplanned joyride down Main Street.
Why You Should Use Your Parking Brake—Every. Single. Time.
Think it’s just for steep hills? Think again. Your parking brake (aka emergency brake, e-brake, or "that thing I never touch") is designed to be used every time you park, whether you're on a slope or a pancake-flat Texas highway. Here’s why:
✅ Saves Your Transmission – When you rely solely on your car’s "Park" gear, all the weight rests on a tiny, fragile piece called the parking pawl. Over time, this can wear out—especially if you park on inclines. The parking brake takes the load off, keeping your transmission happier longer.
✅ Prevents "Sticky" Situations – Parking brakes (especially cable-operated ones) seize up when neglected. Rust and corrosion love to creep in, meaning the day you actually need it, it might not budge.
✅ Extra Safety Net – Ever seen a car roll away in a parking lot? Yeah, that happens more than you’d think. The parking brake is your backup plan.
Common Parking Brake Problems (And How to Avoid Them)
🔴 "It Won’t Release!" – The #1 complaint from drivers who never use their parking brake. Cables freeze up, mechanisms rust, and suddenly, you’re stuck. Fix: Use it regularly to keep things moving. If it’s already stuck, bring it in—we’ll free it up before it becomes a bigger issue.
🔴 Weak Holding Power – If your car still rolls on a slight incline, your cables might be stretched, or the brake shoes/pads could be worn. Fix: Get it adjusted before it fails completely.
🔴 Grinding or Squeaking – A grinding noise means your brake shoes/pads are toast. A squeak? Probably rust from neglect. Fix: Don’t ignore it—get it checked before it turns into a costly repair.
How to Keep Your Parking Brake in Top Shape
✔ Use It Weekly – Even if you’re on flat ground, engage and release it to keep the system functional.
✔ Get It Inspected – Ask us to check it during routine brake service.
✔ Lubricate Moving Parts – Texas heat and dust can accelerate wear. We’ll make sure everything stays smooth.
Ric Henry’s Auto Service: Your Parking Brake Professionals
If your parking brake feels loose, sticks, or just doesn’t work, don’t wait until it fails. Our expert technicians can:
🔧 Diagnose & repair stuck or faulty parking brakes
🔧 Adjust cables for proper tension
🔧 Replace worn pads/shoes before they cause damage
Plus, all our services come with a 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty—because we stand behind our work.
Use It or (Literally) Lose It
Your parking brake isn’t just for emergencies—it’s a critical safety feature. Whether you drive a lifted truck or a compact sedan, use it every time you park. And if it’s not working right? Bring it to Ric Henry’s Auto Service before your car decides to explore San Angelo without you.
Learn how to maintain your turbocharger, spot warning signs of failure, and why professional service is a must. Ric Henry’s Auto Service offers expert turbo repairs with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
CV joints are critical but often ignored until they fail. Learn the warning signs, maintenance tips, and why professional repair matters—backed by Ric Henry’s 3-year warranty.
Is your car misfiring or hard to start? Learn the signs of a bad ignition coil, why DIY fixes can backfire, and how Ric Henry’s Auto Service in San Angelo, TX, can help—with a 3-year warranty!
Share On: