While backing out of a parking place, i felt a sensation of going over a bump. i stopped the car and examined around and under the car. no object or "bump" item was seen. i drove slowly and experienced metallic noises coming from the car. upon having the car checked by my regular garage, it was determined that the emergency brake had broken. i have had it replaced (very expensive) and the mechanic said he had never seen this type of emergency break damage before. other owners of this vehicle may be helped by this information. *tr