What to Do When the Parking Brake Fails and the Car Won't Start?
2 Answers
Abnormal or irregular wear; brake pads need to be replaced. Brake fluid is missing; replace the brake fluid. Abnormalities in wheel speed sensors or wiring; check if the battery is low on power and recharge it in time. This causes the ignition gap to increase, resulting in the car not starting. Replace the spark plugs.
I remember once encountering a situation where the parking brake fault warning light came on, and the car wouldn't start—it was really frustrating. First, don't panic: the parking brake's main function is to lock the wheels and isn't directly related to ignition; it's likely another issue causing this. For example, low battery voltage can trigger various fault codes, and a failed starter or stuck ignition switch could also be the culprit. I suggest you first check if the brake pedal is fully depressed or released; if that doesn’t help, try verifying whether the car key is properly inserted or gently shift the gear to see if it's in neutral or Park. If other dashboard lights are on, it’s probably a battery issue—you can call roadside assistance or use jumper cables to start the car. Safety comes first—if the engine doesn’t respond, don’t force it, and get to a repair shop as soon as possible for a full check of the brake system and electrical wiring. Remember to routinely check dashboard indicator lights before starting the car to avoid similar troubles.
