Does the Buick Regal Electronic Parking Brake Have an Auto-Release Function?
2 Answers
The Buick Regal electronic parking brake has an auto-release function. Most vehicles equipped with electronic parking brakes will automatically engage the parking brake when the vehicle is parked, the engine is turned off, and the seatbelt is unfastened. When getting back into the vehicle, fastening the seatbelt, and closing the door, the parking brake will automatically disengage upon pressing the accelerator. Principle of the Parking Brake: The professional term for the parking brake is auxiliary brake. Unlike the main braking system, it uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle. Prolonged use of the parking brake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation. Since this deformation is irreversible, long-term use will reduce its effectiveness and increase the parking brake's travel distance. Supporting Components: The parking brake system also includes a return spring. When the parking brake is engaged, the spring is stretched; when the parking brake is released, the spring returns to its original length. With prolonged use, the spring may also experience corresponding deformation.
I've been driving a Regal for several years, and every time I start by shifting to D gear and lightly pressing the accelerator, the electronic parking brake automatically releases, which is very convenient. This feature is most noticeable during hill starts, eliminating the need to fumble for buttons. However, there are situations where it won't release automatically, such as when the seatbelt isn't fastened or the door isn't properly closed, as the system detects safety hazards. Additionally, during cold starts, if the battery voltage is low, the automatic release might be delayed, so it's recommended to warm up the car before starting in winter. Overall, this feature is quite reliable, and unless there's a fault code warning, manual operation is generally unnecessary.
