How do I turn on the parking brake?
To engage the parking brake, locate your car's parking brake control and activate it securely—whether it's a traditional hand lever, a foot pedal, or an electronic switch. The precise steps depend on your vehicle's system.
Parking brakes are a safety feature designed to hold a stationary car, especially on slopes. As cars evolve, some use electronic parking brakes or auto-hold functions that work differently from the classic lever. This guide covers the main types and how to engage them properly.
Mechanical handbrake (traditional lever)
Engaging a traditional handbrake involves holding the vehicle still with the regular brake and then pulling the lever until it is firmly set. The following steps assume you are stopped and ready to park.
- Stop the vehicle using the foot brake and keep it pressed until you start the process.
- Pull the handbrake lever upward to engage. You may hear several clicks; pull until you feel snug resistance and the lever sits firmly in place.
- Slowly release the foot brake to confirm the car remains stationary with the parking brake engaged.
- For automatics, set the transmission to Park (P) after the lever is engaged; for manuals, leave in gear (first or reverse, depending on slope) and turn off the engine.
Traditional handbrakes provide solid mechanical hold and are widely used on older cars and many sport models. Ensure the lever is fully engaged before leaving the vehicle, and recheck after a moment if you’re on a slope.
Electronic parking brake (EPB) and related features
Many newer vehicles use an electronic parking brake activated by a switch or knob. In most cases, you engage it with a simple action after stopping with the foot brake; some models also offer auto-hold or auto-release functions.
- Come to a complete stop with the foot brake and keep it pressed as needed.
- Push or pull the EPB switch (or press the brake pedal briefly on some models) to engage the parking brake. Look for a confirmation light or a "P" symbol on the instrument cluster.
- Release the foot brake once the system confirms engagement; the car should stay in place even on a grade.
EPB systems are convenient and often include auto-hold, which keeps the car stationary after you stop until you press the accelerator. Always verify the brake is holding before exiting the vehicle.
Safety and use on inclines
On hills or uneven surfaces, always verify the parking brake is fully engaged and use appropriate gear as a backup. If you sense movement after engaging, re-engage or try a stronger hold, and consult your owner's manual for slope guidelines. Never sit in a parked car on a slope relying only on a worn or weak brake.
Summary
Engaging the parking brake depends on your car’s system: a traditional handbrake, a foot pedal, or an electronic switch. Use the steps above to ensure a secure hold, combine with proper transmission gear when parking, and always verify the vehicle is immobilized before leaving the driver’s seat. When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.
