Ensuring your vehicle is safely secured when parked is crucial for preventing accidents and protecting your property. One essential safety feature in your Mitsubishi Outlander is the parking brake, designed to keep your vehicle stationary on inclines and flat surfaces.
When to Apply the Parking Brake
The parking brake should always be engaged whenever you park your Mitsubishi Outlander, regardless of the terrain. This applies to:
Parking on an Incline
On hills or slopes, the parking brake prevents your vehicle from rolling downhill, safeguarding against potential collisions or damage.
Parking on a Level Surface
Even on flat ground, engaging the parking brake provides an extra layer of security, ensuring your Outlander remains stationary and preventing accidental movement.
Temporary Stops
When making brief stops, such as at a red light or in traffic, it’s generally not necessary to engage the parking brake. However, if you anticipate a prolonged stop, it’s best to apply the parking brake for added safety.
When Parked Apply Parking Brake Mitsubishi Outlander
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a popular SUV known for its practicality, versatility, and fuel efficiency. Like all vehicles, it’s crucial to practice safe driving habits, and one of the most fundamental is engaging the parking brake when parked. This seemingly simple act prevents your vehicle from rolling unexpectedly, safeguarding you, your passengers, and other vehicles or objects around you.
Why is Applying the Parking Brake Important?
The parking brake, also known as the handbrake, acts as a secondary braking system designed to hold your vehicle stationary when parked. It’s essential for several reasons: (See Also: Should You Change Brake Fluid)
- Preventing Rollback: On inclines or declines, the parking brake prevents your vehicle from rolling backward or forward, even if the transmission is in “Park” (automatic) or “Neutral” (manual).
- Enhanced Safety: A properly engaged parking brake significantly reduces the risk of accidents, especially when parked on slopes or uneven surfaces.
- Protecting Your Transmission: In automatic transmissions, the parking brake helps to relieve stress on the transmission components when the vehicle is stationary.
How to Apply the Parking Brake in a Mitsubishi Outlander
The Outlander’s parking brake is a lever located between the front seats. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply it:
1.
Come to a Complete Stop: Ensure your vehicle is fully stopped before engaging the parking brake.
2.
Shift into Park (Automatic) or Neutral (Manual): Select the appropriate gear for your transmission type.
3.
Engage the Parking Brake Lever: Pull the lever upwards until it locks into place. You should feel a noticeable resistance. (See Also: How To Align Disc Brake Calipers)
4.
Verify Engagement: Gently try to move the vehicle by pushing or pulling it. If the parking brake is properly engaged, the vehicle should not move.
Releasing the Parking Brake
To release the parking brake, simply push the lever downwards until it disengages.
Important Considerations
- Always Apply the Parking Brake: Make it a habit to engage the parking brake whenever you park your Outlander, regardless of the incline or surface.
- Adjusting the Parking Brake: If you notice that your parking brake is not holding the vehicle securely, it may need adjustment. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to adjust the parking brake.
- Parking Brake Warning Light: Your Outlander may have a parking brake warning light on the dashboard. If this light illuminates, it indicates that the parking brake is not fully engaged or that there is a problem with the parking brake system. Address this issue promptly.
Driving with the Parking Brake Engaged
Never drive with the parking brake engaged. Doing so can cause damage to your brakes and transmission.
Conclusion
Applying the parking brake when parked is a fundamental safety practice that should never be overlooked. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Mitsubishi Outlander remains securely parked and prevent potential accidents. Remember, a few seconds spent engaging the parking brake can save you from significant trouble down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions: Parking Brake on Mitsubishi Outlander
When should I apply the parking brake in my Mitsubishi Outlander?
Always apply the parking brake whenever you park your Mitsubishi Outlander, whether on a hill or flat ground. This helps prevent the vehicle from rolling unintentionally. (See Also: What Is Brake Differential F1)
How do I know if the parking brake is engaged on my Outlander?
You’ll typically feel a resistance when you pull the parking brake lever. Some Outlander models also have a visual indicator, usually a light on the dashboard, that illuminates when the parking brake is engaged.
What happens if I forget to apply the parking brake?
If you forget to apply the parking brake, your Outlander could roll away, potentially causing an accident or damage. It’s crucial to make it a habit to always engage the parking brake when parked.
Can I drive with the parking brake engaged?
No, you should never drive with the parking brake engaged. Doing so can damage your brakes and potentially lead to a loss of control.
Is there a difference between the parking brake and the regular brakes on my Outlander?
Yes, the parking brake is a separate system from the regular brakes. It uses its own set of brake pads and cables to hold the vehicle stationary. The regular brakes are used for slowing down and stopping the vehicle while driving.
