How to Force Brake with Electronic Handbrake?

[MadisonLee]

Electronic handbrake can be forced to brake by pulling the button to send a brake signal to the vehicle's computer, then holding the electronic handbrake button up for 3 seconds. The vehicle's computer will automatically determine that the vehicle needs to force brake and then issue a command to the ESP body stability control system to perform a special emergency brake. Electronic braking mainly relies on the ECU vehicle computer to make judgments and issue commands to the vehicle. By pulling up and pressing the button, the vehicle makes a brake signal. Many car models now adopt electronic braking design. Electronic handbrake is a technology that achieves parking brake through electronic control. Its working principle is the same as that of mechanical handbrake, both of which achieve parking brake control through the friction generated by the brake disc and brake pads, except that the control method has changed from the previous mechanical handbrake lever to an electronic button. Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) refers to the integration of temporary braking during driving and long-term braking after parking, and the technology of achieving parking brake through electronic control. Electronic handbrake extends from the basic parking function to the automatic parking function AUTOHOLD. The application of AUTOHOLD automatic parking function technology allows drivers not to brake for a long time when the vehicle stops. Starting the automatic electronic parking brake can avoid unnecessary sliding of the vehicle.

[LeJaxon]

I remember one time when my friend's car suddenly slid on a slope. He quickly pulled up the electronic parking brake button to force a brake. Actually, the operation is quite simple: just hold down the button continuously without releasing it, and the system will automatically lock the rear wheels for emergency braking. This can only be done when the vehicle is completely stationary. If you forcefully pull the button while driving, the car may suddenly lose control or trigger the ABS to assist in deceleration, but that's extremely dangerous and can easily cause skidding or damage to the tires. When I drive a car with an electronic parking brake, I always make it a habit to press the button manually after coming to a complete stop to lock it. Most modern cars have an automatic release function, but if you encounter a slope, pulling the parking brake forcefully can ensure the car doesn't roll. However, when you really need to make an emergency stop, pressing the foot brake is more reliable, with the parking brake serving only as a backup. Regularly checking the electronic system is also crucial to avoid button failure—if there's poor contact, the braking effect may be compromised.

[FinnAnn]

As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I've gained some insights about the emergency braking function of electronic parking brakes: it's usually activated by long-pressing the control button. When the vehicle is turned off or parked, firmly press and hold the button for a few seconds, and the system will forcibly lock the calipers to prevent slipping. However, doing this at high speeds could have dire consequences – it might cause the rear end to swing out and lead to rapid tire wear. I recommend only using this feature when parking on level ground, such as when exiting a garage or waiting at a traffic light; on steep slopes, it's best to first use the foot brake to stabilize the vehicle before engaging the electronic mode. While electronic parking brakes save effort, they're not foolproof – regular maintenance can prevent wiring aging issues. Compared to mechanical handbrakes, electronic versions are more intuitive and respond faster, making them easier for beginners to handle. Above all, safety comes first – never risk using it while the vehicle is in motion.

[McGeorge]

When I taught my nephew how to drive, I explained how to force the electronic parking brake to engage: just hold down the button after stopping, and it will lock the rear wheels. If you try this while driving, some cars will automatically decelerate, but never attempt it—it can easily cause the car to lose balance and lead to an accident. Develop good driving habits by applying the parking brake only after coming to a complete stop; check if the system is functioning properly by observing the button's responsiveness and listening for the engagement sound. For added safety, it's best to use it in combination with the foot brake—dual protection brings greater peace of mind.