How to Use the Electronic Parking Brake Correctly?
4 Answers
The correct way to use the electronic parking brake is: it can be turned on and off via the electronic parking button inside the car. When the owner parks and turns off the engine, simply press the electronic parking button. When starting the car, the owner can follow a procedure similar to using a mechanical handbrake: press the brake pedal and then the electronic parking button to release the car's braking state. The electronic parking brake, also known as the electronic handbrake, refers to a technology that achieves parking brake through electronic control. Its working principle is the same as that of a mechanical handbrake, both achieving parking brake control through the friction generated between the brake disc and the brake pads, but it replaces the mechanical handbrake lever with an electronic button control.
As a new driver, I paid special attention to the electronic parking brake when I first started learning to drive. When parking, make sure the car is completely stopped and the brake pedal is firmly pressed, then locate the button on the center console or dashboard and press it gently to activate the lock. After starting the engine, also press the brake pedal, shift into gear, and then tap the button to release the parking brake. Do not use it while driving to prevent accidental braking that could damage the system. My car automatically engages the parking brake when the engine is turned off, which is quite convenient. Compared to traditional handbrakes, the electronic version is more lightweight, but it's recommended to always check that the green indicator light on the dashboard is illuminated to confirm activation. Be extra cautious when parking on slopes to prevent rolling, as the system will automatically apply additional force. With a bit of practice, you'll get the hang of it quickly—it feels very safe and reliable.
Having driven for over a decade, I find electronic parking brakes incredibly convenient. Just press a button to lock after parking, no need to pull a lever like with old-fashioned handbrakes. When starting, simply press the brake to release or lightly tap the accelerator for automatic release, with some models even featuring reminder functions to prevent forgetfulness. Maintenance is straightforward—just regular checks, though occasionally monitoring the battery ensures the system stays powered. They perform well in wet conditions, unlike mechanical handbrakes prone to rust. Just remember to operate only when parked and avoid pressing the button while driving. Overall, they suit modern driving habits, saving time and effort.
From a technical perspective, the electronic parking brake uses an electric motor to control the brake caliper. When parking, press the brake pedal and activate the button to lock it; to release, similarly press the brake pedal and the button while synchronizing with gear shifting. Many vehicles integrate an auto-hold function that automatically activates the parking brake during brief stops in D gear. Proper usage ensures activating the lock before turning off the engine and manually releasing it upon startup to reduce load. The system relies on sensors, so regular checks are necessary to avoid module aging failures. Refer to the owner's manual for details to prevent misuse when needed.
