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What is the problem with the electronic parking brake on a Subaru Outback?

The electronic parking brake on the Subaru Outback has been a source of frustration for many owners. This feature, designed to automatically engage the parking brake when the vehicle is turned off, has been reported to malfunction, leading to unexpected brake engagement and potential safety issues.


Unexpected Brake Engagement


One of the primary problems with the electronic parking brake on the Subaru Outback is the issue of unexpected brake engagement. Some owners have reported that the parking brake will engage unexpectedly, even while the vehicle is in motion. This can be particularly dangerous, as it can cause the vehicle to suddenly slow down or even stall, potentially leading to a loss of control.p>

Difficulty Disengaging the Brake


Another common issue with the electronic parking brake is the difficulty in disengaging it. Some owners have reported that the brake refuses to disengage, even when the vehicle is turned on and the driver attempts to release it. This can be a significant inconvenience, as it prevents the driver from being able to move the vehicle and can lead to additional wear and tear on the brake system.


Potential Safety Concerns


The problems with the electronic parking brake on the Subaru Outback can also raise safety concerns. If the brake engages unexpectedly or cannot be disengaged, it can increase the risk of accidents, particularly in emergency situations. This can be especially problematic for drivers who rely on the parking brake for steep inclines or when parked on uneven terrain.p>

Potential Solutions



  • Subaru has issued software updates to address some of the issues with the electronic parking brake, but these have not been entirely effective in resolving the problem.

  • Some owners have reported success in manually disengaging the parking brake by following specific procedures outlined in the vehicle's owner's manual.

  • In more severe cases, the parking brake system may need to be repaired or replaced by a qualified Subaru technician.


Overall, the problems with the electronic parking brake on the Subaru Outback can be a significant source of frustration and concern for owners. While Subaru has taken steps to address the issue, the persistent nature of the problem suggests that more comprehensive solutions may be needed to ensure the safety and reliability of this feature.

What causes an electric parking brake problem?


Worn-out components or connectors. The EPB system also uses a number of mechanical components, such as actuators and solenoids. Over time, these components can wear out and fail. This can also prevent the parking brake from releasing, and prevent the car from starting.



Why is my parking brake not working on my Subaru?


One of the primary reasons for parking brake failure in Subaru vehicles is worn brake components. Over time, the brake pads and brake shoes that engage the parking brake can become worn down due to regular use.



Is there a recall on the Subaru Outback electronic parking brake?


Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The electronic parking brake (EPB) may not engage as intended, allowing the vehicle to rollaway if the transmission is not in the proper gear when parked.



What to do if electronic parking brake fails?


3 tips on what to do if the electric parking has a malfunction

  1. Clean and check the components. It is very important to ensure that the components of the electric parking brake are in good condition.
  2. Check voltage.
  3. Examine the cables.



What are the disadvantages of electric braking system?


The only disadvantage of this type of braking is that the motor has to run at super synchronous speed which may damage the motor mechanically and electrically, but regenerative braking can be done at sub synchronous speed if the variable frequency source is available.



What are the drawbacks of an electronic parking brake systems?


Consider the Drawbacks: Potentially higher cost, reliance on power and specialist repairs may be required.



What year is bad for Subaru Outback?


What are the worst Subaru Outback years? Different reliability tracking outlets disagree on this. CarComplaints, a crowdsourced site, find 2013, 2015, and 2018 models to have the most issues. These years overlap two generations, but the most common complaints are electrical system and engine issues.



What is the class action lawsuit against Subaru?


According to the Subaru windshield class action lawsuit, Subaru equipped certain vehicles with defective windshields that crack easily. Despite knowing about the alleged windshield defect, Subaru reportedly denied warranty coverage and forced drivers to pay out of pocket for windshield repairs.



What is the latest Subaru Outback recall?


2020-2022 Subaru Outback and Legacy Recall
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.



Is an electric parking brake reliable?


In the conventional parking brake, cables may wear or break over time, which may require replacement. In general, the electric parking brake can be more comfortable and safer to use compared to the conventional parking brake, but it can also be more expensive to maintain and repair.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.