Is the Electronic Parking Brake Automatically Released?

[AdamFitz]

Is the electronic parking brake automatically released? The usage method of the electronic parking brake is: 1. Activate the electronic parking brake by stepping on the brake pedal and pulling up the electronic parking brake switch until the indicator light on the dashboard lights up, and the indicator light on the parking brake switch also lights up; 2. Deactivate the electronic parking brake by pressing the electronic parking brake switch while stepping on the brake, and the indicator lights on the dashboard and switch will turn off. The principle of the electronic parking brake is: when parking, after the driver operates the electronic button of the electronic parking brake system, the electronic control unit will control the motors integrated in the left and right brake calipers to act, driving the brake caliper pistons to move and generate mechanical clamping force to complete the parking.

[IsabelaFitz]

The first thing I did after changing cars was to thoroughly study this electronic parking brake. Most cars now come with AUTOHOLD function, which can indeed release automatically. For example, when waiting at a red light, pressing the brake deeply activates parking, and stepping on the accelerator at a green light allows you to go directly. However, there are three points to note: first, when starting on a slope, pressing the accelerator too lightly may not release it; second, a 'click' sound from the chassis when releasing is normal mechanical noise; third, older models require manually pressing the button. It is recommended to test the automatic release response on different slopes in an open area as soon as you get a new car, as safety is the most important.

[DelMalachi]

The electronic parking brake logic differs between my two cars. The Toyota requires manually pressing the button to release, but a slightly deeper press enables auto hold. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen can move directly by pressing the accelerator, provided the seatbelt is fastened. Here's a practical tip: After summer sun exposure, the electronic parking brake might 'freeze', where the button becomes unresponsive – restarting the infotainment system usually fixes it. It's recommended to test the emergency release loop monthly (hidden under a small cover next to the parking brake button) as it can be lifesaving in critical situations.

[DiSpencer]

Over a decade of car repair experience, I've often seen car owners misunderstand electronic parking brakes. Its automatic release depends on three conditions: doors closed securely, driver's seatbelt properly fastened, and gear in D/R position. Last time during a customer's maintenance, the issue was his thick down jacket pressing against the buckle causing poor contact. Also, a reminder for those who don't drive frequently - the electronic parking brake calipers might stick, so it's best to start the car and move it every two weeks. During maintenance, remember to ask the mechanic to clean the brake pad metal dust to prolong its lifespan.