What is the electric parking brake

The car’s handbrake lever has been slowly phased out and an electronic switch is taking its place in the latest models. The system has a management control unit that is integrated and in communication with the other on-board systems. This allows a number of convenient features, such as “hill start assistance”. In most cases, in fact, the electric handbrake includes the useful and safe Auto-hold function which keeps the car still when stationary or taking off uphill. This feature gives drivers the great advantage of an uphill restart without having to worry about the car rolling back.

The electric brake with cables

The electric car brake with cables is one of the different kinds of parking brakes that can be found on cars. It is a hybrid with the classic handbrake since the cables that make the brake shoes come into action are integrated into the rear discs. The cables are pulled by the electric motor, which replaces the manual lever. This system is subject to wear and tear as over time the cables tend to deteriorate and this results in a drastic drop in performance, just as it happens with the classic handbrake. Furthermore, in winter times, this type of electric brake can cause problems by getting stuck.

How to release the electric handbrake when stuck?

The first thing to do is checking the vehicle owner’s manual. Various manufacturers have a fairly quick solution for this issue. Some offer a special tool (supplied in the tool bag, where the jack is stored) that needs to be inserted in a socket that could be located in the boot compartment or under the car, in the rear bumper bar area. Some other manufacturers don’t offer a quick solution for this issue and the only ways to fix it are either to call a specialised mechanic who will release the electric handbrake with special instruments or calling a tow-truck that will take the vehicle to your favourite mechanic. 

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The electric handbrake

The alternative to the electric brake with cables is the fully electric handbrake integrated in the brake calipers. this set up offers an higher braking force compared to the traditional parking brake. Electrical problems can happen with these brakes, but they are generally very reliable. The most common problems that require attention typically only affect the control switches or related parts on the brake calipers.

Red brake warning light on or flashing

On the dashboard there’s a red warning light with a circled P. When this is on, it signals that the parking brake is engaged, if it is off the brake is not engaged.

But when the red parking brake warning light flashes, the brake may not be properly applied, making parking unsafe. If this happens, the first thing to try is activating and deactivating it several times and if necessary, switch off and restart the car to try to reset the system.
If the light keeps on flashing, the problem requires inspection and possibly repair. It is recommended not to use the car and call your trusted mechanic immediately. 

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