4 Braking Mistakes That Damage Your Car

JAKARTA, TongueTekno

A good driver not only masters driving skills, but also understands ideal braking techniques. This is very important because apart from being a matter of safety, correct braking techniques also provide additional benefits such as saving fuel, extending the service life of brake linings and tires, and maintaining vehicle performance.

Apriyanto Yuwono, National Sales Manager Passenger Car Radial (PCR) PT Hankook Tire Sales Indonesia, explained that understanding braking techniques according to the situation is very important to avoid forming habits that are actually detrimental. He stated that drivers often have the habit of braking without paying attention to the situation, even though this can have cascading consequences, both for the vehicle and road safety.

According to Apriyanto, braking is not just about stopping the car, but is also part of how to control the vehicle safely and efficiently. Therefore, drivers need to avoid wrong habits when braking.

Braking Mistakes that Drivers Often Make

1. Using the handbrake for too long when parking
   
   The handbrake works by pressing the pad against the rear drum or disc to keep the car from moving. If left active for too long, the lining can stick to the surface of the drum and has the potential to come off the holder. This risk is greater if the brakes were last used in wet conditions. If forced to move, the car could experience damage to the brake system and endanger the driver. To park for a long time (a week or more), you should use a block or tire stopper as a tire support.

2. Relying excessively on the brakes on downhills
   
   Many drivers don’t realize that they often only rely on the brake pedal to reduce speed on long and steep downhill roads. This habit can cause overheating due to excessive friction between the lining and disc, so that the brakes have the potential to fail. The solution is to use the engine brake technique, namely lowering the transmission gear so that the engine helps hold the vehicle’s speed. Perform intermittent braking, gradual braking with pauses so that the brake system has time to cool down. Use low gear from the start of the descent and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

3. Press the brake and clutch simultaneously on a manual car
   
   There are still many manual car drivers who are used to pressing the brake pedal together with the clutch to slow down the vehicle. However, this method is not always correct. When the clutch is pressed, engine power to the wheels is cut off so the car loses braking assistance from the engine. As a result, vehicle control is reduced, especially at high speeds. For optimal braking, press the brake first, then the clutch when adjusting the speed. Only use both together when the car is almost stopped or in an emergency to prevent the engine from stalling.

4. Doing sudden braking too often
   
   Pressing the brake suddenly can stop a car quickly, but if you do it continuously, it will put excessive pressure on the brake system and tires. The tire surface can wear unevenly or even form flat spots which reduce traction. On slippery roads, this increases the risk of skidding. It’s best to brake gradually and smoothly, or use intermittent braking. For cars with an ABS system, press the brake pedal constantly without releasing it so that the system works optimally to maintain tire traction.

Maintenance Tips for Good Braking Technique

Apart from understanding correct braking techniques, drivers also need to carry out routine maintenance. One way is to replace the brake linings when signs such as squeaking sounds or traction begins to decrease. Safe braking also needs to be supported by excellent tire condition, because tires play an important role in maintaining vehicle traction and stability in various road conditions.