What does it mean when the autohold light is on?
3 Answers
When the HOLD light on the car's dashboard is illuminated, it indicates that the automatic parking function, also known as AUTO-HOLD, is activated. This function provides automatic braking, eliminating the need to use the handbrake or electronic parking brake during stops such as waiting at traffic lights, thus simplifying operations. Relevant information about the car key's HOLD button is as follows: 1. Introduction: Pressing and holding the HOLD button for a few seconds opens the trunk, preventing the risk of accidentally opening the trunk while the vehicle is in motion, hence the name "HOLD". 2. Other functions: The HOLD button is not just a trunk opening key; it also serves as a remote engine start button. Holding it for 2 to 3 seconds within remote distance automatically starts the car. This feature is particularly useful in winter and summer for pre-adjusting the interior temperature.
The other day I was driving on a mountain road and noticed the autohold light was on, which means the auto hold function was activated. This feature is super convenient—for example, when waiting at a red light or stuck in traffic, once the car comes to a complete stop and you release the brake pedal, it automatically locks the wheels to prevent the car from rolling. To start moving again, simply press the accelerator, and the brake will release automatically. However, I should remind you that it's best to turn it off when reversing into a parking space, as frequent adjustments are needed, and having it on can be more of a hindrance. In rainy or icy conditions, although the system still works, the braking performance may be reduced, so extra attention is required.
My car has been in use for over three years, and when I see the autohold light on, I know the electronic parking brake is activated. After starting the vehicle each time, I manually press the button, and the light indicates the function is active. At this point, the car automatically brakes when coming to a complete stop in D gear, eliminating the need to operate a traditional handbrake. One detail to note is that reversing can be less flexible when autohold is on, so it's advisable to turn it off in advance when parallel parking. Additionally, if you have the auto start-stop function enabled, the two operate independently—autohold does not affect the engine's shutdown and restart. If the light flashes without reason, it might be a signal of a sensor malfunction.
