Where is the handbrake on the Audi A4?
2 Answers
On the left side of the gear lever, there is a button with a 'P' inside a circle. Pressing it downward releases the handbrake, while pulling it upward engages the handbrake. Current Audi models use electronic parking brakes, as mechanical handbrakes have gradually phased out of the automotive market. Below are relevant details: 1. Precautions: Before using the electronic parking brake, you must first press the brake pedal. It's important to note that the button has a response time, typically around 0.5 seconds. In extreme situations while driving, operating the electronic parking brake button is necessary to apply the brakes. 2. Principle of Electronic Parking Brake: The electronic brake is not a mechanical parking handbrake. At high speeds, emergency braking is controlled by the ESP system through single-sided control, applying hydraulic braking to all four wheels. The electronic parking brake can only directly control braking when the vehicle is nearly stationary.
I used to drive an older Audi A4, which had a mechanical handbrake lever located in the area between the driver and passenger seats, right behind the gear shift—super convenient. Nowadays, the newer A4 models mostly come with an electronic parking brake. The button is positioned on the center console above the driver's left knee, marked with a circle and a 'P'. The electronic parking brake is incredibly hassle-free—just press the button when parking, and a red light immediately lights up on the dashboard. When starting off, simply step on the accelerator, and it automatically releases, saving you even the effort of bending over. My friend bought a new model last year equipped with an auto-hold function. When stopping at a red light, a firm press on the brake automatically locks the wheels, and a green indicator light pops up on the dashboard, completely freeing your right foot during city traffic jams. However, one thing to note with electronic parking brakes is that the button might freeze in icy conditions, so warming up the car beforehand can help avoid any issues.
