What does the EPB light mean?
4 Answers
EPB light refers to the electronic parking brake system indicator light. When the EPB light is on in a car, it indicates a malfunction in the electronic handbrake. Since the electronic handbrake consists of multiple components such as wheel speed sensors, throttle position sensors, handbrake switches, wheel speed sensors, and motors, any abnormality in these components may cause the EPB light to illuminate. Extended content: The main solutions for the EPB light being on are the following steps: 1. Press down the foot brake. 2. Simultaneously press down the handbrake and hold it for about 20 seconds. 3. Lift the handbrake back up. If the issue cannot be resolved, it is necessary to take the car to a repair shop for inspection.
I've also encountered the EPB light coming on while driving, which is usually the electronic parking brake system reminding you. Normally, after parking and engaging the handbrake, this light will illuminate to indicate the working status. However, if it stays on while driving, something might be wrong. Last time on the highway, I noticed the light remained on and realized the handbrake wasn't fully released—the brake pads even got overheated. Electronic systems can sometimes act up, like due to signal interference or faulty sensors, causing the light to come on mistakenly. If you notice the light flashing on a steep slope, check the tire position immediately. My advice is to try engaging and releasing the handbrake button a few times first; if that doesn't work, get it inspected right away.
The EPB light indicates that the electronic parking brake system is active or malfunctioning. It's normal for this light to illuminate on slopes as the system helps stabilize the vehicle, but you should be cautious if it lights up while driving on flat roads. I make it a habit to check the dashboard during every cold start—if the light remains on after self-inspection, it signals a potential issue. Once, my car's EPB light stayed on due to aged brake wiring, causing the auto-hold function to fail completely, nearly resulting in the car rolling at a red light. If you notice any abnormalities, immediately pull over to a safe area and check for loose wiring connectors. Avoid continuing to drive under such conditions.
The electronic parking brake indicator light being on indicates only two possibilities: normal operation or system malfunction. For example, when you press the AUTOHOLD button at a red light, the light indicates the function is active. However, if the light stays on during normal driving, it's likely a problem. I've experienced situations where unstable battery voltage triggered the system protection, causing the light to come on unexpectedly. In such cases, I usually try restarting the vehicle first, then check if the parking brake switch is stuck. For short-distance emergencies, you can continue driving, but if accompanied by a soft brake pedal or unusual noises, you must pull over immediately.
