Where is the e-brake located?
The electronic parking brake (e-brake) is typically located on the center console near the gear shifter as a small switch or button labeled P or EPB.
In most modern cars, EPB replaces the traditional handbrake with an electronic control; location can vary by model, with the center console being the most common site, though some vehicles place it on the dash or in other nearby spots. This article outlines where to look and how to recognize the control.
Common locations for the EPB
Here are the typical places you’ll find the EPB control in modern passenger vehicles:
- Center console near the gear selector, usually a small switch or button labeled with a P or EPB.
- Dash or instrument-panel area on the driver's side, where some models mount a separate EPB button or integrate it with the instrument cluster controls.
- Occasionally on the left side of the center console or tucked behind a small cover, depending on the model and trim.
In most cases, you’ll find the EPB on the center console near the gear shifter. If you can't locate it, check the owner’s manual or look for the P/EPB symbol on the control, and be mindful of any automatic hold features that may operate with the EPB engaged.
Summary
The e-brake is generally located on the center console close to the gear shifter, but variations exist by make and model, including dash-mounted or alternative placements. When in doubt, the owner’s manual or a quick in-car search for a P or EPB symbol will guide you.
Which pedal is the e-brake?
Answer: A parking brake, also called an emergency brake or e-brake, is a mechanical hand lever or foot-operated brake that is a backup braking system. It is located either between the front two seats or to the left of your gas and brake pedal.
Where can the emergency brake be located?
Hand lever emergency brakes are the most common type, typically found between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat. To engage it, simply pull the lever upward. Releasing it usually involves pressing a button at the end of the lever while pushing it down.
Where is the e-brake in a car?
The emergency brake is located in one of four places: as a hand lever between the front seats, as a foot pedal to the left of the driver's feet, as an electronic push-button on the center console, or as a stick lever under the instrument panel in older vehicles. You can identify which type your car has by looking for these specific locations or by consulting your car's owner's manual.
This video shows how to use different types of emergency brakes: 55sehowautoYouTube · May 21, 2015
Hand lever
- Location: A lever positioned in the center console, between the driver and passenger seats.
- How to use: Pull the lever up to engage and pull it down after pressing the button at the end to disengage.
Foot pedal
- Location: A pedal on the floor to the left of the other foot pedals.
- How to use: Press the pedal down until it clicks to engage. To disengage, you typically pull a small lever near the pedal or press the pedal down again.
This video shows how to use a foot pedal parking brake: 1mHelpful DIYYouTube · Aug 30, 2022
Electronic or push-button
- Location: A button or switch found among the other console controls or to the left of the steering wheel.
- How to use: Press the button to engage and press it again to disengage. Some systems may require you to press the brake pedal at the same time.
Stick lever
- Location: A small lever located under the instrument panel.
- How to use: Pull the lever to engage. This type is most common in older vehicles.
Where is the parking brake usually located?
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
