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Where is Ford parking brake?

Most modern Ford models use an electronic parking brake located on the center console near the gear selector. Some older or base models still rely on a traditional handbrake lever between the front seats or a foot-operated pedal on the far left of the driver's footwell.

What to expect by model and year

Ford has shifted many models to electronic parking brakes (EPB) in recent years. The exact location and operation can vary, so it helps to know what your specific vehicle uses and where to look.

Electronic parking brake (EPB) on the center console

In most contemporary Ford vehicles, the parking brake is electronic and controlled by a switch on the center console near the gear selector. Look for a small button or switch marked with a "P" and a brake symbol. Some models place the switch on the upper edge of the center console, others beside cupholders or near the shifter.

Traditional handbrake lever

A few older Ford models or specialized trims may still use a conventional handbrake lever located between the two front seats. The lever is pulled upward to engage the brake and released by pressing the release button and lowering the lever.

Foot-operated parking brake pedal

Less common in recent passenger cars, some base or utility Ford models (notably certain trucks) may employ a foot pedal parking brake on the far left side of the driver’s footwell. Depress the pedal to engage and release according to the model’s design.

Common locations you might find the Ford parking brake, depending on your vehicle's generation and trim:

Center console electronic parking brake switch near the gear selector (often with a "P" symbol).

Conventional handbrake lever between the front seats (in older or specific trims).

Foot-operated parking brake pedal at the far left of the driver's footwell (rare in newer models).

If you aren’t sure which system your Ford uses, consult your owner's manual or contact a Ford dealer for model-specific instructions.

How to identify and use your parking brake

Look for the parking brake indicator on the instrument cluster when you engage or release the brake. If you’re using an EPB, ensure the vehicle is stationary when engaging the brake and follow the manual for releasing the brake, especially if you have features like Auto Hold enabled. For traditional handbrakes or foot pedals, apply the brake firmly at stop and release according to your model’s release mechanism.

Summary

Ford parking brakes are most often electronic and located on the center console in today’s models, but older or basic trims may still use a handbrake lever or a foot pedal. Check your owner’s manual or ask a dealer to confirm the exact location and operation for your specific model and year.

How do I turn off the Ford parking brake?

To turn off an electronic parking brake on a Ford, press the brake pedal with your foot and then push the parking brake switch down. For many models, the parking brake will also automatically release when you shift into gear with your foot on the brake and a light tap on the accelerator pedal, but always check your owner's manual for your specific vehicle's operation, notes this YouTube video and this Ford support page.

This video shows how to disengage the parking brake on a Ford Edge: 54sQuiteAlrightYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
Manual release

Press and hold the brake pedal: Place your foot firmly on the brake pedal.
Press the parking brake switch: Push the parking brake switch down. The switch is typically located on the center console.
Confirm release: The parking brake warning light on your dashboard should turn off.

This video demonstrates how to disengage the parking brake on a Ford Escape: 39sDIY PintoYouTube · Jun 15, 2018
Automatic release (in some models)

Engage the parking brake.
Press and hold the brake pedal.
Put the vehicle into gear.
Gently press the accelerator pedal: A light tap is usually enough for the system to disengage, according to this YouTube video and Reddit users.

Important considerations

Consult your owner's manual: The exact procedure can vary by model year, so it is best to check your vehicle's specific instructions in the owner's manual.
Check the dashboard: Always ensure the parking brake warning light has turned off after attempting to disengage the brake.
For brake maintenance: If you need to disable the parking brake for maintenance like replacing the rear brake pads, there may be a special "maintenance mode" procedure that requires a different sequence, such as turning the ignition on and off while holding the pedal and switch, as described in this Brake & Front End article and a related YouTube video.

This video explains how to disable the parking brake in a Ford F-150 for maintenance: 41sThe G Automotive And MoreYouTube · Jul 21, 2022

Where is the parking brake on a Ford?

Uh and then I'm going to pull it. To turn it on. And as you can see on the instrument. Panel it says brake. Right there indicating that the brake is on the parking brake is on now to release.

Where is the parking brake on a 2019 Ford F150?

This. So now when you hear that sound that means that your parking brake is engaged. And also on your dash.

Where can I find the parking brake?

The parking brake is located in one of four places: between the front seats as a center console lever, on the floor to the left of the driver's feet as a pedal, on the dashboard or center console as an electronic push-button, or, in older cars, as a stick lever under the instrument panel. To find it, look for a handle, pedal, or button labeled "Parking Brake" or similar, or consult your car's owner's manual.

This video shows the location and usage of an electric parking brake: 59sLincolnYouTube · Sep 20, 2024
Types and locations of parking brakes

Center lever: A hand-operated lever located between the driver and passenger seats in the center console.
Foot pedal: A pedal on the floor to the left of the gas and brake pedals.
Electronic push-button: A button or switch found on the center console or dashboard, often near other controls.
Stick lever: A pull-knob located under the instrument panel on many older vehicles.

This video demonstrates how to engage and disengage a handbrake lever: 49sScorpion MultimediaYouTube · Jul 23, 2025

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.