How to Handbrake Turn

Last Updated: September 16, 2021 References

A handbrake turn is a common skill seen in Hollywood movies, but it's not just for Vin Diesel. Use of the handbrake locks the rear wheels, and when turning, will help rotate the back end of the car more quickly than a normal turn.

Steps

1
Find an empty parking lot or another open space where you can drive your car. Try to avoid driving on private property unless you have permission. It is also a good idea to avoid parking lots with light poles, as they can cause significant damage in an impact.
2
Set up a traffic cone, bucket or another object to make your turn around.

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3
For a left hand turn, put your left hand at 1-2 o'clock on the wheel, about where your right hand would normally be, and place your right hand one the underside of the wheel, between 5-7.^{[1]
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4
Approach the cone at a low speed (less than 30mph) and in 1st gear. If you are driving an automatic, put the shift lever into low gear (D1, 1, or L, check your owners manual).^{[2]
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5
As you come to the corner, pull the wheel hard to the left in a fluid motion, aiming to apex about halfway around the corner.^{[3]
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6
Simultaneously put in the clutch (manual only) and pull the handbrake. Make sure that you keep the button on the handbrake pressed in, since you do not want the ratchet mechanism to engage, keeping the rear wheels locked beyond what you want.^{[4]
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7
As the back end of the car slides around the corner, bring the wheel back to the right so that the tires are pointing where you want to go after the turn.
8
Release the handbrake quickly, making sure to hold in the button as you do.
9
Release the clutch and apply throttle to pull out.
10
If the back end over-rotates, it will be necessary to counter-steer to correct your course.
11
Drive off and keep practicing until you get the technique down.

Community Q&A

Question

What if there's no hand brake but a parking (foot) brake?

Community Answer

If your car does not have a hand brake, just press the foot brake. In many new JDM cars, there is a foot brake instead of a hand brake.
Question

How can I use a handbrake while driving straight?

Community Answer

Pull the hand brake and turn the wheel in the direction you want to go.

Warnings

Do not attempt this in an SUV or other top heavy vehicle, as the rollover risk is high.

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This technique will flatspot and wear out tires very quickly, so it is a good idea to practice on a smooth surface, or in a flat, grassy field where tire wear will be reduced.

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