There are two main types of hand brake valves used in cars: mechanical hand brake valves and hydraulic hand brake valves.
Mechanical hand brake valves: Mechanical hand brake valves, also known as cable-operated hand brake valves, use a cable to activate the brake. This type of hand brake valve is commonly found in older cars and some budget models. It is operated by pulling a lever, which pulls on a cable that is connected to the brake shoes or pads in the rear brake drums or discs. The brake shoes or pads then apply pressure to the drum or disc, bringing the vehicle to a stop.
Hydraulic hand brake valves: Hydraulic hand brake valves, also known as hydraulic parking brake valves, use hydraulic pressure to activate the brake. This type of hand brake valve is commonly found in modern cars and high-performance vehicles. It is operated by pulling a lever, which activates a hydraulic cylinder that applies pressure to the rear brake calipers. The brake calipers then apply pressure to the brake pads, bringing the vehicle to a stop.
Some cars may also have a combination of both mechanical and hydraulic hand brake systems, where the mechanical system is used as a backup in case of a hydraulic system failure.