What is the parking button on the Lexus CT200H?
The parking button on the Lexus CT200h is the electronic parking brake switch. It activates and releases the car’s electronic parking brake, replacing a traditional handbrake.
What the parking button does
In the CT200h, the parking brake is electronic. When engaged, it locks the rear brakes to prevent the car from rolling when parked. The switch is typically labeled with a "P" and the parking indicator light on the dash confirms status.
Note that exact behavior can vary by model year or trim; some versions support automatic release when you begin to move or depress the accelerator, and some may include an Auto Hold feature for added convenience.
Key points about the CT200h's parking brake are summarized below:
- The switch controls the electronic parking brake (EPB).
- Engaged parking brake lights a P indicator on the dash or near the switch.
- Release may be automatic when you start to drive or you can release manually by operating the switch, depending on the system in your car.
- It replaces the traditional handbrake and works with the braking system to hold the car on slopes.
The EPB provides a convenient, cable-free way to secure the vehicle when parked and is designed to release automatically as you start to drive, with manual release options available depending on your model.
How to use the CT200h parking brake
Typical operation for most CT200h models involves engaging the EPB with the engine running and your foot on the brake, then releasing either by the switch or automatic release as you move. Always refer to your specific year/trim manual for precise steps.
- With the engine on and your foot on the brake, pull the EPB switch to engage the parking brake; the P indicator will illuminate.
- To release, either push the EPB switch again or gently depress the accelerator (if your car supports automatic release) after removing your foot from the brake.
- When parked on a slope, ensure the parking brake is engaged and that the wheels are turned appropriately to prevent rolling.
- If your CT200h has Auto Hold, you can rely on it to keep the brakes applied at a standstill when you stop, reducing pedal effort; otherwise, use the EPB as needed.
Concluding: The EPB streamlines parking and driving away by replacing a traditional handbrake with an electronic switch, with auto-release options depending on your model and settings.
Auto release and safety features
Some CT200h variants offer an automatic release of the electronic parking brake as you begin to move, while others require a manual release via the switch. An Auto Hold feature, if equipped, can keep the brakes applied at a stop until you press the accelerator. If your vehicle lacks Auto Hold, rely on the EPB to secure the car on hills and release it manually when ready to move.
Maintenance and safety tips
Keep the EPB switch and surrounding area clean and free of debris to ensure reliable operation. If the parking brake light stays on or the brake does not release, have the system inspected by a Lexus technician, as a failure can lead to unexpected movement or battery drain.
Never rely solely on the parking brake to secure the vehicle on an incline during long-term parking; always use the transmission in Park and apply the appropriate wheel chocks if necessary.
Summary
The parking button on the Lexus CT200h controls an electronic parking brake that replaces the traditional handbrake. It locks the rear brakes when parked and typically releases automatically when you begin to drive, with variations depending on year and trim. Used correctly, the EPB offers a convenient and reliable way to secure the vehicle, with safety features such as indicator lights and, on some models, Auto Hold.
