How to Release the Electronic Parking Brake in a Car?
4 Answers
The driver only needs to fasten the seatbelt inside the car, start the ignition, shift into D gear, and lightly press the accelerator pedal, and the electronic parking brake will automatically release. Due to the convenience of electronic parking brakes, many car models now use them to replace traditional mechanical handbrakes. In addition to automatically releasing when driving, the electronic parking brake can also automatically engage when the driver parks, turns off the engine, and unfastens the seatbelt. Below is the relevant introduction: 1. Definition of the electronic parking brake: The electronic parking brake is a technology that achieves parking braking through electronic control. Its working principle is the same as that of a mechanical handbrake, both achieving parking braking control through the friction generated between the brake disc and brake pads, except that the control method has changed from the previous mechanical handbrake lever to an electronic button. 2. Technology of the electronic parking brake: The electronic parking brake is also known as the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) system. The Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) system integrates the temporary braking during driving with the long-term braking after parking, and achieves parking braking through electronic control. 3. Function of the Auto Hold feature: The electronic parking brake extends from the basic parking function to the Auto Hold (AUTO-HOLD) feature. The application of the Auto Hold (AUTO-HOLD) technology eliminates the need for drivers to brake for a long time when the vehicle stops. When the automatic electronic parking brake is activated, it can prevent unnecessary sliding of the vehicle.
When I first bought my car, I was completely confused about the electronic parking brake. I tried pressing the button directly, but the car wouldn't move. Later, I realized I needed to press the brake pedal first. The operation is actually quite simple: first, sit in the driver's seat, fasten your seatbelt, and make sure the gear is in P or neutral (for manual transmission cars). Then, firmly press the brake pedal—don't release it yet—and gently press or lift the electronic parking brake button (usually located near the dashboard or center console). The button will pop up or the indicator light on the dashboard will turn off, indicating a successful release. I recommend making this a habit when starting, especially on slopes, as the electronic parking brake includes a hill-start assist function to prevent the car from rolling backward. If you forget to press the brake, the system might sound an alarm or refuse to operate—this design is for safety. New drivers will get the hang of it after a few tries, and it's much more effortless than traditional handbrakes—truly convenient.
Having driven for over a decade, releasing the electronic parking brake is a piece of cake: just firmly press the brake pedal (no light tapping), locate the correct button (which varies by model—some are toggle switches, others are electronic buttons), and press it to automatically release. My experience shows that most automatic transmission cars can also disengage it directly by pressing the accelerator while in D gear, saving manual effort. The disappearance of the dashboard indicator light confirms successful operation. If it fails, it might be due to battery issues or minor system glitches—simply restarting the engine often helps. During rain, snow, or on steep slopes, manual release is more reliable to prevent delayed automatic function from causing rollback accidents. Regularly inspect button and wiring wear to avoid failures at critical moments.
Safety is my top priority when driving. Releasing the electronic parking brake must never be taken lightly: you must fully depress the brake pedal and ensure the vehicle is completely stationary before pressing the release button. Before starting off, confirm the gear position is correct and the dashboard light is off, indicating successful release. Common mistakes include attempting to press the button without braking, which triggers the system's protective lock and often leads to operation failure or startup delay. This design stems from safety mechanisms to prevent accidental movement due to unintended activation. I remind everyone to use the parking system when stopping on slopes, stay fully focused when disengaging it, and avoid distractions like looking at your phone. Developing safe habits can prevent 90% of accidents.
