What does the foot brake in the Sylphy mean?

[VonSimon]

The foot brake in the Sylphy refers to the parking brake. Simply put, it replaces the hand-pulled handbrake with a foot-operated mechanism, eliminating the traditional handbrake. This foot brake is only available in the automatic transmission models of the Sylphy and is located on the left side of the left foot. Its function is identical to that of a handbrake: pressing it once engages the brake (equivalent to pulling the handbrake), and pressing it again releases the brake. More details are as follows: 1. The parking brake, commonly known as the handbrake, provides resistance to prevent the car from rolling when parked. It locks the transmission shaft or rear wheels. The parking brake exerts much less force compared to the service brake, just enough to prevent the car from rolling on a slope. 2. The Electronic Parking Brake System (EPB: Electrical Park Brake) integrates temporary braking during driving with long-term braking after parking, achieving parking brake functionality through electronic control. 3. The electronic handbrake realizes parking brake functionality via electronic control. Its working principle is the same as that of a mechanical handbrake, both relying on the friction between the brake disc and brake pads to achieve parking brake control. The only difference is that the control method shifts from a mechanical handbrake lever to an electronic button.

[DelKathryn]

I've been using the Sylphy for several years, and the foot brake design is quite unique. It's essentially the parking brake system, where you press down with your left foot to lock the rear wheels, unlike traditional handbrakes that take up space. It's separate from the brake pedal, making it convenient to operate, especially in stop-and-go city traffic—just one press to stabilize the car. I think this benefits from the trend of electrification, with Nissan adding cables and release mechanisms for easy maintenance. Just remember not to press too hard. It pairs especially well with automatic transmission cars, reducing the hassle of shifting gears and freeing up more space. If you're a new owner, it might take a few days to get used to, but once you do, you'll find it much more practical than expected.

[Candice]

I remember when I first drove the Sylphy, I was completely baffled by the foot brake, thinking it was just a substitute for the handbrake. After trying it a few times, I realized its brilliance: just a light tap with the left foot, and a pull on the nearby handle to release it, saving me from bending over. After driving tens of thousands of kilometers now, this design feels really thoughtful—no distraction during traffic jams, and it avoids the awkwardness of forgetting to release the handbrake. Personally, I think it's especially suitable for middle-aged and elderly drivers, reducing hand movements and matching the pedal position height for a more relaxed drive. However, it's important to ensure it's locked tight during hill starts to prevent the car from rolling back. Overall, the Sylphy's foot brake enhances the smoothness of daily driving, a small but clever innovation.

[LeKimberly]

The foot brake in the Sylphy is the parking brake, don't confuse it with the regular brake. Press it down with your left foot to lock the wheels, and operate the release mechanism before letting go. Personally, I've noticed it's more effortless than a handbrake, frees up center console space, and provides better stability when parked. For safety, check the cables if the system makes unusual noises.