Should the Electronic Parking Brake Be Released When Starting?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission vehicles require the electronic parking brake to be released when starting. Below are the specific details about the electronic parking brake: 1. 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 rely on the friction generated between the brake disc and brake pads to control parking braking. However, the control method has shifted from a mechanical handbrake lever to an electronic button. 2. The electronic parking brake, also known as the electronic parking brake system (EPB), integrates temporary braking during driving with long-term parking braking and achieves parking braking through electronic control. The basic parking function of the electronic parking brake has been extended to include the automatic parking function, AUTO-HOLD. The application of the AUTO-HOLD automatic parking function technology eliminates the need for drivers to maintain prolonged braking when the vehicle is stationary. Activating the automatic electronic parking brake prevents unnecessary vehicle slippage.
I've driven several cars from different brands, all equipped with electronic parking brakes. You definitely need to release it before starting, otherwise the car feels stuck and won't move. Many modern models have an auto-release function - just shift into D or R gear and lightly press the accelerator, and the parking brake disengages automatically. This is particularly handy for preventing rollback on slopes. For manual release, you need to firmly press the brake pedal first, then press the release button on the center console until the P indicator on the dashboard turns off. If forgotten, the system usually alerts or auto-releases during startup, but frequent occurrences might cause extra wear to the brake motor. I've developed a habit of checking dashboard warnings after ignition as my little safety ritual. While electronic parking brakes are smarter than traditional mechanical ones and designed to simplify operation, developing good starting habits is more crucial - don't always rely on automatic functions as a precaution.
