Is the Electronic Parking Brake Prone to Malfunction?
2 Answers
Generally speaking, the electronic parking brake is not prone to malfunction. However, if the car experiences severe power loss, the electronic parking brake may fail to function due to insufficient power. The electronic parking brake is a technology that uses an electronic system to control the vehicle's parking brake, achieving the same effect as a mechanical handbrake but with a different control method. Its advantages include saving the space occupied by a mechanical handbrake, creating more central console space; simple operation and effort-saving; and adding multiple functions such as auto start-stop and hill-start assist. More details are as follows: 1. Activating the electronic parking brake: When the car is stopped, shift to P or N gear, press the brake pedal, and pull up the electronic parking brake switch until the indicator light comes on. If the car is turned off without activating the electronic parking brake, most vehicles will automatically engage the electronic parking brake. 2. Deactivating the electronic parking brake: Press the electronic parking brake switch while holding down the brake pedal. When the indicator light turns off, it means the electronic parking brake is deactivated.
Having driven for many years, I find electronic parking brakes quite reliable in modern cars—far more durable than old-fashioned cable handbrakes, since they operate via motors and circuits without mechanical wear parts. But claiming they never fail is unrealistic. I once experienced a minor issue: the motor occasionally jammed during summer heat, causing the e-brake to be unresponsive, later traced to dirty sensors triggering errors. If the battery is low or circuits get wet, the system will trigger a warning light, requiring prompt attention to prevent parking slippage. Overall, electronic parking brakes are smartly designed with long lifespans, but being electronic components, they carry slightly higher risks—repairs can cost hundreds or even thousands. Regular battery maintenance and system warning checks significantly reduce failure odds. Use them normally, avoid extreme conditions, and for used cars, a professional inspection ensures safety.