What is the difference between an electronic parking brake and autohold?

[JakeRose]

The differences between an electronic parking brake and autohold are: 1. Different symbols: The symbol for the electronic parking brake is 'P'; the symbol for autohold is 'A'. 2. Different functions: The electronic parking brake achieves parking by clamping the friction between the brake shoes and the brake drum or between the friction pads and the brake disc; autohold is an extension of ESP, allowing the driver to avoid prolonged braking when the vehicle is stopped, preventing unnecessary sliding of the vehicle. The method of using the electronic parking brake is: 1. Press the electronic parking brake to stop braking; 2. Lift the electronic parking brake to start braking. The method of using autohold is: 1. In situations requiring short stops, such as at traffic lights, the system will automatically brake the wheels after the vehicle comes to a stop to prevent rolling; 2. When starting on an uphill slope, the system will automatically brake to prevent rolling backward.

[StJoanna]

The electronic parking brake is primarily used when parking. Every time I stop the car, I press that button, and it automatically locks the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling, which is especially useful when parking on slopes or in parking lots. In contrast, autohold is a helper for temporary stops. When driving and encountering a red light or queuing, the car automatically brakes once it comes to a complete stop. When the light turns green, just step on the accelerator to go, saving the trouble of constantly pressing the brake pedal. They are fundamentally different: the electronic parking brake is more like an electronic version of the traditional handbrake, used for long-term parking, while autohold relies on vehicle sensors combined with the electronic stability system and is only effective for brief stops. Autohold also requires the engine to be running and the seatbelt to be fastened, whereas the electronic parking brake has no such restrictions. From the perspective of automatic release, the electronic parking brake can disengage when the accelerator is pressed, but autohold is designed to be smarter, almost seamlessly transitioning to driving.

[SanPeyton]

As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I find the purposes of these two features quite distinct: The electronic parking brake is used after coming to a complete stop, such as when reaching a destination—I engage it to ensure the vehicle remains securely stationary. Autohold, on the other hand, handles temporary stops during daily driving, like at traffic lights, where the system automatically holds the car, eliminating the scramble when starting off. The electronic parking brake operates independently without relying on other functions, whereas autohold must be linked to the vehicle's sensors and engine status—sometimes it won't activate if the system doesn't detect a full stop. In practical driving, the electronic parking brake is rarely used on highways, while autohold proves more effortless. Both can prevent rollback on slopes, but autohold feels more like an intelligent extension, enhancing overall convenience. I recommend that new drivers familiarize themselves with these settings.

[Louise]

When driving with my child, safety is my top priority. The electronic parking brake serves as a rigid parking lock, preventing the vehicle from rolling away during prolonged parking or being stolen. Meanwhile, the auto hold function provides short-term protection, such as briefly holding the car during hill starts, eliminating the need for me to press the brake pedal and reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. The fundamental difference lies in their functions: the electronic parking brake is like a fixed anchor point and requires manual activation, while auto hold integrates with the electronic control system, responding automatically—though sensor malfunctions can sometimes affect it. Auto hold contributes significantly to safety but only activates under specific conditions, whereas the electronic parking brake is more reliable. Additionally, their technical foundations differ: the electronic parking brake uses a motor to lock the wheels, while auto hold relies on brake pressure to maintain position. Thus, the former offers stronger stability, while the latter is more susceptible to voltage fluctuations. It’s important to regularly check if these systems are functioning properly.