What to Do When the Volkswagen Tiguan's Parking Brake Won't Release?

[DeRowan]

Solutions for the Volkswagen Tiguan's electronic parking brake not releasing: Step on the brake and restart the engine to reset it; if that doesn't work, try gently accelerating to move forward a short distance, as it usually unlocks automatically. Otherwise, towing to a 4S dealership for repair is necessary. Below are the correct usage methods for electronic parking brakes: 1. Pull the button upward to engage the parking brake, press it downward to release. 2. Before starting the car, the electronic parking brake cannot be disengaged—check if the battery is dead or the vehicle's computer has frozen. 3. After starting, the vehicle computer sets the engine to idle, and the brake motor activates the brake pads. 4. Replace the motor if there's no power, or restart the system if it's frozen.

[LailaFitz]

My Tiguan also had the issue of the handbrake not releasing before, and I was in such a hurry to leave that day. First, I tried pressing the brake pedal firmly a few times—sometimes dust stuck on the brake discs can cause this. Then, I repeatedly pulled up and pressed the handbrake button, doing this five or six times until I heard a click before releasing it. If that still didn’t work, I’d have to check the handbrake cable under the car. Last time, it froze after washing the car in winter, and I had to use a hairdryer to melt the ice. If you really can’t fix it, don’t force it—calling a tow truck is the safest option. Forcing the car to move will wear out the brake pads, and repairs will cost even more.

[NevaehLynn]

Last time when driving my Tiguan home in the rain, the handbrake button suddenly got stuck and couldn't be pressed down. I first tried restarting the system three times after turning off the engine, as electronic systems can occasionally act up. Then I checked under the driver's seat to see if a coin was jamming the button, only to find that the spring plate had rusted. As a temporary fix, I sprayed some WD-40 lubricant on the mechanical parts, waited five minutes, and then pressed down hard to release it. This kind of issue is mostly caused by lack of lubrication in mechanical parts or rust from rainwater exposure. It's important to avoid placing drinks near the button in daily use.

[JuneDella]

When the Tiguan's handbrake won't release, don't panic. Try pressing the brake pedal while repeatedly pushing the handbrake button. Once I encountered the button stuck in the middle position, and gently prying the button edge with a screwdriver reset it. It's also crucial to check if the handbrake cable in the trunk is being pressed by luggage - I once had camping gear squeezing the cable causing failure. In winter, pay special attention as the cable might freeze; pouring warm water near the wheel hub can thaw it. If these methods don't work, you'll have to call for roadside assistance.