Do I Need to Press the Electronic Parking Brake Every Time?

[SimonRose]

If it is purely an electronic parking brake, manual operation is required. The precautions for mechanical and electronic parking brakes are as follows: Do not pull the parking brake too tightly: In daily use, remember not to pull the mechanical parking brake too tightly, as excessive stretching or prolonged tension on the metal cable can accelerate its deformation and aging, leading to a loosened parking brake or cable breakage. 70% of the force is sufficient to secure the car and prevent it from rolling. Avoid prolonged parking on slopes: Relying solely on the parking brake will accelerate the wear of the brake cable. The correct approach is to first use the parking brake after stopping, then place a brick or similar object in front of the wheel facing the downhill side to secure it, release the parking brake to transfer the force to the wheel, and then re-engage the parking brake. Be cautious in winter: After driving on icy or snowy roads in winter, pulling the parking brake may cause it to freeze due to accumulated snow, making the vehicle unable to move. Additionally, when washing the car in winter, avoid using the parking brake; instead, use the gear or a brick to secure the car. Regarding electronic parking brakes, it is important to note that compared to traditional mechanical parking brakes, electronic parking brakes have a sleek and aesthetically pleasing design and are convenient to use. However, electronic parking brakes use an electronic cable reel, which requires a corresponding time, usually about 1 second, to tighten and release, making it slightly slower than mechanical ones.

[CoreyMarie]

The electronic parking brake doesn't need to be operated every time you drive or park. I've found that with automatic transmission cars, it's mainly manually engaged when parking, and the system automatically releases it when you press the accelerator after starting. This saves time and avoids the risk of forgetting to release the handbrake. However, after switching between several different car models, I noticed functional differences: some cars automatically engage the parking brake when turned off, or enhance braking force on slopes; entry-level models require manual control. It's advisable to confirm activation each time you park to prevent accidents caused by vehicle rollaway. Develop the habit of handling it only when getting in or out of the car, avoiding interference while driving for greater safety. Regularly check sensors and cables, as aging may lead to malfunction or failure; timely maintenance can extend their lifespan. Remember, while automatic features are convenient, manual verification is still essential.

[Nicola]

As a driver who frequently takes long trips, I find the electronic parking brake quite convenient—just press the button when parking is needed. After starting the car and stepping on the accelerator, it releases automatically, eliminating the need to manually disengage it each time. When parking, I press the button to secure the vehicle. The advantage is that it simplifies the parking process, especially reducing fatigue during traffic jams. However, different car models handle it differently: some high-end models operate automatically, while manual operation is more reliable in budget models. Be cautious not to accidentally press the button while driving to prevent mishaps. It’s also important to integrate it with the auto-hold function, as temporary braking doesn’t affect the electronic parking brake setting. Ensure the battery is healthy, and refer to the manual for steps to release it in case of a power outage. Overall, it reduces operation frequency and is smarter.

[JoannaLynn]

When driving, the electronic parking brake only needs to be operated once when parking. After activation, there's no need to touch it again—stepping on the accelerator will release it, saving the hassle of repeatedly pressing the button. However, as a safety-conscious driver, I emphasize the key operations: only engage it after the car has come to a complete stop, or ensure it's activated before turning off the engine to prevent sliding accidents. Misoperation can lead to increased wear on components and higher maintenance costs. Combining it with the automatic transmission's functions will make the operation smoother. It's recommended for beginners to practice the basics first to familiarize themselves with the system.