käsijarruja

Käsijarruja refers to the handbrake, also known as the parking brake or emergency brake, found in vehicles. Its primary function is to secure a parked vehicle, preventing it from rolling away, especially on inclines. While often used for parking, it can also serve as an emergency brake if the primary hydraulic braking system fails.

In most manual transmission vehicles, the handbrake is a lever located between the driver and the passenger seats. Pulling this lever engages a mechanism that applies braking force to the rear wheels, often through a separate set of brake shoes or by mechanically actuating the main brake calipers. Automatic transmission vehicles may also have a handbrake, though some use a foot-operated pedal or an electronic parking brake system integrated into the vehicle's electronics.

Electronic parking brakes (EPB) are becoming increasingly common. These systems use electric motors to apply and release the brakes, typically operated by a button or switch rather than a lever. EPBs offer convenience and can also incorporate features like automatic hill-hold, which keeps the vehicle stationary on a hill without the driver needing to keep their foot on the brake pedal.

Proper use of the handbrake is essential for vehicle safety. It should always be engaged when parking, particularly on any kind of slope. Drivers should also be aware of its function as an emergency brake and understand how to operate it effectively in a critical situation, although its use for emergency braking requires practice and caution to avoid skidding.