To press the button in on my hand-break before pulling it up to put the break on

[DuelingFanjo]

because I did in my mum's car and she said 'don't push the button in, just pull it up'.

I have always pushed it in.

[ShatnersBassoon]

I hold the button in so far, then release and pull up for one more notch. That final click is reassuring

[valiumredhead]

Use the button!

[specialsubject]

you always push the button in unless you like spending excessive amounts on fixing your car.

in the same way as you drive smoothly and anticipate to avoid wasting fuel. Most people don't know that either.

OP - your mum is wrong.

[DuelingFanjo]

Dunno - if you watch the video I linked to but they say for a vauxhall you shouldn't push the button.

[specialsubject]

I guess that is because they want to make sure you put the handbrake on firmly so they don't get sued when your car rolls away. They will assume that you are too dumb to check.

and of course when the handbrake wears prematurely, you pay them to fix it!

[ShatnersBassoon]

The ratchet isn't damaged by not depressing the release button. A ratchet is designed to be ratcheted (!) ie you don't have to have a smooth action around the teeth.

[beginnings]

I've always pushed the button as the noise sets my teeth on edge. My mother never does and it drives me bonkers.

Who knew I wasn't supposed to!

[DuelingFanjo]

Does she drive a Vauxhall though?

[caroldecker]

don't think i've used the handbrake for about 20 yrs, so no help i'm afraid