💧 Why Do Brakes Stick After Driving Through Water?
When your car goes through water, moisture can remain inside the braking system (especially the rear drum brakes).
If you engage the handbrake while parking overnight, that moisture can cause the brake pads and drums to stick together.
By morning, your car might feel “stiff” or the rear wheels won’t move — meaning your brakes are stuck!

🧰 How to Prevent Brakes from Sticking After Driving Through Water

✅ 1. Avoid Using the Handbrake
After parking, use a wheel chock or stone instead — especially on the driver’s side.

• Automatic transmission: Shift to “P” (or “N” if on a slope) and release the handbrake.

• Manual transmission: Engage 1st gear or Reverse (R) and release the handbrake.

• If the surface isn’t level, always use a wheel stopper to prevent rolling.

✅ 2. Dry Your Brakes Before Parking
If possible, gently press the brake pedal several times after driving through water. The heat generated will help evaporate moisture, reducing the risk of rust or brake binding.

✅ 3. Check Before Driving Off
On the morning after rain, shift into gear and move slightly forward. If the car feels “draggy” or doesn’t move easily, try moving gently to free the brakes — don’t accelerate forcefully.

⚠️ Pro Tip:
If you must park on a slope, always use wheel chocks, even if you haven’t driven through water.

And if your handbrake feels weak or the car tends to roll, using a wheel stopper adds extra safety too!