What is the P button on a Toyota Yaris?

The P button in a Toyota Yaris is the control for the electronic parking brake (EPB), and in many trims also serves as the Park function. It helps secure the vehicle when parked and can work with Auto Hold to keep the car stationary without the driver pressing the brake pedal.

What the P button does

In modern Yaris models, the P button activates the electronic parking brake, replacing the traditional handbrake lever. When engaged, it locks the rear brakes to prevent the car from rolling. In some versions, the same button is used for Park transmission actions, and the dash P indicator lights up to confirm engagement.

Where to find the P button

On most current Yaris models, the P switch sits on the center console near the gear selector or cupholders. It is typically labeled with a P icon and a brake symbol. In some trims, especially hybrids, it may be a compact touch-style switch rather than a traditional lever.

Model variations and market differences

Some markets or older generations may use a traditional handbrake or a different arrangement for Park. If your Yaris lacks a prominent P switch, consult your owner's manual to confirm how the parking brake is implemented in your specific model and region.

How to use the P button

Engaging the electronic parking brake is a straightforward, two-step process that is common across most Yaris variants:

• With the vehicle at or near a complete stop, pull the P switch upward until you feel resistance and the parking brake indicator lights up on the instrument cluster.


• The dash P indicator confirms the parking brake is active.

Concluding note: The parking brake remains engaged to prevent movement until you release it. If Auto Hold is available, it may also help keep the car stationary after you stop.

To release the EPB, follow these steps:

• With your foot on the brake pedal, push the P switch downward (or press it, depending on the model) to release the parking brake.


• Begin to accelerate gently; if Auto Hold was active, the system may release automatically as you press the accelerator.

Concluding note: After release, the P indicator should turn off and normal driving can resume. If the car doesn’t release as expected, ensure the vehicle is fully stopped and you are following the correct procedure for your trim.

Safety notes and practical tips

While the P button provides convenient parking security, keep these tips in mind:

• Do not rely on EPB alone on very steep hills. Use the appropriate parking gear or wheel chocks if needed, especially on inclines.


• Auto Hold can help in stop-and-go situations, but always verify the car is securely stopped before exiting or starting on a slope.


• If the EPB indicator stays lit, or you hear unusual noises when engaging or releasing, stop and consult the owner’s manual or a Toyota dealer. Electrical or actuator faults can affect EPB performance.

Always refer to your specific Yaris model year and market manual for exact operation, as implementations can vary between trims and regions.

Summary

The P button on a Toyota Yaris is primarily the electronic parking brake control, designed to secure the car when parked and, in many models, to work with Auto Hold for easier stops. It replaces the traditional handbrake in modern Yaris versions, but exact behavior can vary by generation and market. Use it as part of your standard parking procedure and consult the manual if you notice any discrepancies or faults.

What does the p button do?

Electronic Parking Brake
Swap in a "P" for the "A" and you're now looking at the electronic parking-brake switch. This button, which might require a push or a pull to activate, controls the parking brake, which holds the car in place on steep inclines or when the transmission is in neutral.

What is the p button in Toyota?

The "P" button on a Toyota typically refers to the electronic parking brake or an automatic parking assist feature. The most common function is the electronic parking brake, which you can manually pull up or push down to engage and disengage, or set to automatically engage when you park and disengage when you shift into gear. Some models may have a separate "P" button with a cone symbol, which activates the parking assist system to help you park, notes I-5 Toyota and GuangcaiAuto.
 
Electronic Parking Brake 

• Location: Usually a button on the center console, often labeled with a "P" inside a circle or a similar icon. 
• Function:
  • Engage: Pull up the switch to engage the parking brake when the car is stopped. You will see a light on the dashboard. 
  • Disengage: Press the brake pedal and push down on the switch to release it. 
  • Automatic Mode: Many newer models have an automatic mode. The parking brake will set itself when you shift into Park and release when you shift into Drive, according to Toyota's owner's manual and this YouTube video. 
  • Manual Override: You can switch between automatic and manual operation by holding the button down for a few seconds until a message appears on your dashboard, says North Park Toyota. 

Parking Assist

• Location: A separate button on the dash, often with a "P" and a cone symbol, such as on models like the Tacoma, explains Tacoma4G.com. 
• Function: Activates the system that helps with parallel and perpendicular parking. It will use sensors to find a space and then control the steering wheel, accelerator, and brake pedals for you, with guidance on the dashboard display. 

This video demonstrates how to use the Toyota parking assist feature: 59sBrian Doolan at Fitzpatricks Garage KildareYouTube · May 9, 2023

What is the difference between parking brake and P?

The brakes of the handbrake are applied to the rear wheels, whereas putting the gearbox in P locks the output shaft of the transmission by using a parking pawl to stop it rotating.

Should I leave my car in P or N?

Modern car have auto hold. Solving the issue need shift to N when standstill in traffic light. But if you really stop for parking, pull the e brake first instead of straight press the P in gear knot.