What is the purpose of the emergency brake and when should you use it?

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The emergency brake, also known as the parking brake, is a separate backup braking system. Its main use is to hold the vehicle stationary when you park, especially on hills, and to provide a last-resort braking option if the regular (main) brakes fail. It’s designed to secure the car or help slow you in an emergency, not to be used for normal driving at speeds. Because it often acts on the rear wheels, pulling it abruptly at speed can cause the wheels to lock or the car to skid, so it should be used gradually and only when needed. It’s not for starting the engine, nor for steering, and it isn’t intended for routine high-speed braking. Use it when parking to secure the vehicle, and in an emergency if the regular brakes fail, then get the braking system inspected.