How do you turn off the automatic parking brake on a Honda?
In most late-model Hondas with an electronic parking brake and Auto Brake Hold, you can disable the Auto Brake Hold feature or toggle off the Brake Hold function; exact steps vary by model and year.
This article explains how the system works, where to find the controls, and model-specific notes to help you disable automatic brake hold or the related braking aids safely. Because Honda’s UI and hardware can differ between trims and generations, always consult your owner’s manual for your exact vehicle.
Understanding Honda’s auto parking brake features
Many modern Hondas use an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) paired with Auto Brake Hold (also known as Brake Hold). Auto Brake Hold can keep the car stationary after you stop, releasing only when you press the accelerator or brake pedal again. The EPB uses a switch or button to engage or disengage the parking brake. The ability to turn off Auto Brake Hold or the EPB itself varies by model and year; some owners may only disable the Auto Brake Hold while the EPB remains ready to engage when parked.
Steps to disable Auto Brake Hold on most Hondas
The following steps cover the common methods used on many recent Honda models. If your vehicle differs, refer to the owner's manual or your dealership for model-specific instructions.
- Start the engine and bring the car to a complete stop. Locate the Brake Hold/Auto Brake Hold control on the center console or near the gear selector and press it to toggle Auto Brake Hold off. An indicator light on the instrument cluster should turn off, confirming that Auto Brake Hold is disabled.
- If your car uses the driver information display to manage braking settings, use the steering wheel controls to navigate to Settings > Vehicle > Brakes > Brake Hold or Auto Brake Hold, then set it to Off.
- After turning off Auto Brake Hold, test the system by stopping and confirming the car does not automatically hold. If the light or behavior persists, consult the manual for a model-specific procedure, or have the dealership verify the feature is disabled.
Disabling Auto Brake Hold changes how the vehicle behaves at stops. Drive safely and ensure you understand how to regain control when stopping on inclines or in traffic.
Model-specific notes
Honda Civic (recent years)
Many Civics with the latest infotainment systems use a Brake Hold button near the center console. To disable, press the Brake Hold button once so its indicator turns off, or navigate through the display menu (Settings > Vehicle > Brakes > Brake Hold) and select Off. If you don’t see an option in the menu, your year or trim may not permit permanent deactivation of Auto Brake Hold, and you may only disable it temporarily.
Honda CR-V (recent years)
CR-V models with EPB and Auto Brake Hold often mirror the Civic approach: use the Brake Hold switch to deactivate, or use the vehicle settings menu to switch Auto Brake Hold off. If the feature cannot be turned off through the menu, the dealership can advise on model-specific steps or firmware updates.
Honda Accord and other sedans/SUVs
Accord and similar models typically provide a Brake Hold toggle on the console or an on-screen control in the driver information interface. When available, set Brake Hold to Off via the button or the Settings menu. Some trims may require a dealer-assisted change or may not allow permanent deactivation of Auto Brake Hold.
Safety considerations and tips
Even when Auto Brake Hold is disabled, you still have the EPB available for parking. Always ensure the parking brake is engaged when parked on an incline and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidance. If you rely on Auto Brake Hold for daily stops (heavy traffic, stop-and-go conditions), re-activate it when needed and note how it behaves when pulling away from a stop.
If you can’t find the option or it won’t stay off
Some Honda models may not offer a permanent off switch for Auto Brake Hold in certain trims or software versions. In that case, consult the owner’s manual for your exact model/year, contact a Honda dealer, or check for software updates that add or adjust brake-hold controls.
Summary
To turn off the automatic parking brake on a Honda, you generally disable the Auto Brake Hold feature or toggle the Brake Hold switch off. The exact steps depend on your model and year, so refer to the owner’s manual or contact a dealer for model-specific instructions. Understanding where the controls live—whether on the center console or within the vehicle settings—will help you manage Auto Brake Hold effectively and safely.
