What is the P light on my Honda HRV?
The P light on the Honda HR-V is the Park indicator on the instrument cluster. It shows when the transmission is in Park, and on models with an electronic parking brake it can also indicate that the brake is engaged. This guide explains what the P light means, when it should appear, and what to do if it behaves unexpectedly.
What the P light means
The P icon serves as the current gear position indicator. In most HR-Vs, you’ll see P lit when the vehicle is parked with the transmission in Park. Some trims with an electronic parking brake use this same symbol to indicate the brake is applied to hold the car in place. The exact appearance and behavior can vary by model year and trim, so it’s good to check your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.
Park position indicator
The primary purpose of the P indicator is to confirm the transmission is in Park. It should light when you engage Park and typically turn off when you shift out of Park.
- Shifting the selector into Park (P) should illuminate the P indicator on the dash.
- When parked on level ground or after turning off the engine, the P light should be visible only if Park is engaged.
- If the P light is on while you’re not in Park, that could indicate a shift-lock or transmission-sensing anomaly requiring service.
In normal use, the P light’s role is informational—letting you know the vehicle is secured in Park and ready to be shifted out when you’re ready to drive.
Electronic parking brake indicator
On HR-V models with an electronic parking brake, the P symbol may appear in conjunction with the EPB indicator when the brake is engaged. Releasing the EPB should turn the light off as you begin to move.
- To release an engaged EPB, press the brake pedal and use the EPB switch according to the owner’s manual.
- If the P light stays on after you release the EPB or you cannot release the brake, there may be a fault in the parking brake system.
- A warning message or another brake-related light often accompanies EPB-related issues; have the vehicle inspected promptly.
Remember that the P symbol’s meaning can depend on your specific HR-V configuration, so consult your manual for precise guidance.
What to do if the P light behaves unexpectedly
If the P light appears under unusual circumstances—such as lighting while driving, or staying on after you’ve parked—take these steps to stay safe and protect the system.
- Ensure the gear is fully in Park (P) and the parking brake is released before continuing to drive.
- Turn the ignition off and back on to reset the transmission and EPB controls, then check whether the light returns to normal in Park.
- Look for other warning lights or messages on the instrument cluster and note any codes or symptoms.
- Refer to the owner’s manual or contact a Honda dealer or qualified mechanic for a diagnostic check if the light persists or you notice braking issues.
Prompt attention is especially important if the light is accompanied by brake warning indicators or unusual braking behavior.
Summary
The P light on the Honda HR-V mostly signals Park status, and on many models it also serves as an indicator for an engaged electronic parking brake. If it behaves abnormally—staying on while driving, flashing, or accompanied by other warnings—seek service promptly. Checking the owner’s manual for your exact year and trim will provide model-specific guidance.
