Where is the handbrake in Tesla Model 3?

[CarlosMarie]

Tesla Model 3 does not have a dedicated handbrake button or lever. Its P gear functions as the electronic parking brake, so shifting to P gear on the stalk is equivalent to engaging the handbrake. Taking the Model 3 2021 Standard Range Plus (Made in China) as an example: The manufacturer of this car is Tesla China, classified as a mid-size sedan with a 4-door, 5-seat configuration. The dimensions of this model are 4694mm in length, 1850mm in width, and 1443mm in height. It features a single-speed electric vehicle transmission, rear-wheel drive layout, and electric power steering.

[NaomiLee]

As a Model 3 owner, I've noticed it doesn't have a traditional handbrake but instead features an electronic parking system. When I park, shifting to P mode automatically activates it, locking the wheels. If manual operation is needed, I just locate the setting on the central touchscreen—usually, there's a parking brake switch in the control menu that does the trick with a single tap. This makes daily driving much more convenient, eliminating the need to fumble for a lever inside the car and reducing the risk of accidental operation. I remember when I first got the car, I instinctively looked for the lever position and was quite surprised to find nothing there, but once accustomed, it feels more effortless and safer. Especially for urban parking on slopes, the automatic function ensures the car stays securely in place without needing to manually remember to engage the handbrake. Now, every time I use the car, I trust this system completely. I'd recommend new owners to try the automatic mode more often and simply get into the habit of shifting to P when parking.

[ValeriaLee]

I've been driving a Tesla Model 3 for several years. The handbrake in this car is actually an electronic parking brake system, with no physical lever or pedal at all. The activation method is automatic wheel locking when you shift to P gear. Alternatively, for manual control, you can tap the parking brake option in the vehicle settings on the central touchscreen. This design is much more worry-free compared to older models, eliminating mechanical part failures. When parking on slopes, there's no concern about the car rolling. I really appreciate its intelligence—the system automatically detects vehicle conditions to engage the brake, avoiding embarrassing situations like forgetting to pull the handbrake in my old car. Overall, it's a step forward, but I'd remind beginners to ensure the touchscreen is responsive during operation and avoid accidental touches while driving.

[LillianMarie]

On the Model 3, the parking brake function is electronic without a physical lever. The parking brake automatically engages when I park—just shift into P gear. Manual operation requires accessing the vehicle control settings through the central touchscreen to trigger it. Compared to traditional handbrake levers, it's safer and more reliable, preventing the car from rolling on slopes. In daily use, it's simple, quick, and eliminates the step of searching for the lever.