How to Do Handbrake Skids

Handbrake skids, also called rear wheel skids and "handbrake turns" are performed by many stunt drivers. Cars accelerate to moderate speeds, the driver applies the handbrake and the car makes a loud skidding sound. The car typically does a 180-degree turn at the end of the skid. These stunts are very dangerous. Only attempt them on appropriate race tracks and with proper supervision.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Car with a handbrake
• Race or stunt track

1. Take the car to the race track. Enter the car and place both hands on the steering wheel. Keep your hands in a position where you can quickly and easily turn the wheel.
2. Start the engine and let off of the brake. Accelerate until you reach 30 or 35 miles per hour.
3. Ease off the accelerator before you do a handbrake skid. If you drive a standard, floor the clutch. If you drive an automatic, shift the car into neutral.
4. Begin to turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the car to turn. Immediately yank the handbrake lever. This completely locks the rear wheels. You will hear a loud skidding sound as the car turns in the direction of the steering wheel.
5. Apply the normal foot brake to come to a complete stop. Accelerate and perform the handbrake skid in the other direction.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a front wheel drive car to make it easier to perform a handbrake skid.
• Car stunts come with great risk of injury. Perform them at your own risk.
• It is illegal to do car stunts on public roadways.