How to use the electronic parking brake P and A?

[Gemma]

When using the electronic parking brake, simply press the P button to activate the electronic parking brake system. To deactivate it, lift the button upwards. Pressing the A button activates the vehicle's auto-hold function, also known as the automatic parking brake function. When the vehicle comes to a stop and the brake pedal is pressed, the auto-hold feature will engage. The structural principle of the electronic parking brake involves the application of electronic parking brake technology in automobiles, specifically the caliper-integrated electronic parking brake system. This system replaces traditional parking brake levers, mechanical linkages, and control cables with electronic buttons and motor components. When parking, the driver operates the electronic button of the electronic parking brake system, and the electronic control unit (ECU) controls the motors integrated into the left and right brake calipers. These motors drive the brake caliper pistons to generate mechanical clamping force, thereby completing the parking process.

[Shannon]

As a seasoned driver with seven to eight years of experience, I've become quite adept at using the P and A functions of the electronic parking brake. Let's start with the P button, which stands for parking brake functionality: when you've parked and are about to turn off the engine, pulling or pressing the P button will lock the wheels to prevent rolling on slopes. When starting the car, stepping on the brake and then the accelerator will automatically release it. The A button activates the auto-hold feature—when lit, it's engaged. This is particularly useful at red lights or in traffic jams: once the car comes to a complete stop, it automatically applies the brakes so you don't have to keep your foot on the pedal; just press the accelerator to move off, making driving easier and safer. If you forget to turn on A, releasing the brake at a green light might cause the car to roll slightly, which is why I make it a habit to activate A as soon as I get in the car. Additionally, operations may vary between different car models—for instance, some vehicles automatically engage P when turned off. It's always best to consult the manual for specifics, as anything related to driving safety should never be taken lightly.

[SpencerLynn]

As a new car owner, I found the P and A functions of the electronic parking brake both simple and fun to learn. P is just a parking button: press it to engage the handbrake after parking, and step on the accelerator to release it when starting. As for A, press the button to turn it on (indicated by the light), and the car will hold itself stationary when stopped, eliminating the need to keep your foot on the brake—especially handy in traffic jams; just step on the accelerator to move again. I remember the first time I used it, I didn’t know A had to be manually activated—I thought it was automatic—and the car rolled back, scaring me half to death. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to check if the A light is on when I get in. A word of caution: never touch the P button while driving—accidentally pressing it could cause a sudden, dangerous brake, and I nearly embarrassed myself once. While electronic features are convenient, it’s always safer to practice in an empty space first—safety first, no doubt.

[LeTyler]

Driving safety is my top priority, and the correct use of the electronic parking brake P and A is crucial. P stands for parking brake: it must be engaged (pulled up or pressed) when parking for extended periods to prevent the vehicle from rolling; it is released by pressing the brake and accelerator when starting. A represents the auto-hold function: once enabled, it automatically maintains braking when the vehicle comes to a stop, eliminating the need to continuously press the brake at red lights, thus reducing fatigue; pressing the accelerator releases it. The key is to avoid activating P while driving to prevent system damage or loss of control. I always check the P status before exiting the vehicle to ensure it's securely locked. Additionally, A may fail in rainy or snowy conditions when the road is slippery, increasing the risk of the vehicle sliding—manual P is more reliable in such scenarios. Developing a habit of regularly checking the vehicle manual ensures that all functions are properly maintained and in good working order.