What are the hazards of long-term auto hold?

[EvangelineAnn]

Long-term use of auto hold has minimal impact on the vehicle. Below is an introduction to the auto hold function: 1. Definition: Auto hold refers to an automatic braking function. When activated, such as when stopping at a traffic light, it eliminates the need to pull the handbrake, simplifying operations by avoiding the use of manual or electronic parking brakes. 2. Braking System: The auto hold function relies on an intelligent braking system. Only vehicles equipped with brake control systems like ESP can implement the AUTO-HOLD feature. This function automatically engages four-wheel braking when stopping at traffic lights or on slopes. Even in D or N gear, there's no need to keep the foot on the brake or use the handbrake, as the vehicle remains stationary.

[Kendall]

From a mechanical perspective, frequent long-term use of auto-hold may accelerate wear on specific components. This feature essentially replaces your need to press the brake pedal continuously with electronic signals, meaning the braking system remains under load even when the vehicle is stationary. This effect is particularly noticeable in dual-clutch transmission models—during auto-hold, the clutch plates are in a semi-engaged state, similar to holding the clutch pedal down at a red light in a manual transmission car, which can lead to overheating over time. Some users have also reported that their electronic parking brake calipers developed sluggish retraction after three years, which technicians attributed to daily auto-hold usage. Although these systems are designed for long lifespans, keeping the brakes engaged for dozens of minutes daily inevitably introduces significantly more work cycles compared to natural parking.