Where is the emergency brake on a Dodge?
The emergency brake is typically either a traditional handbrake lever between the front seats or an electronic parking brake switch on the center console, depending on the model and year. In practice, look for a between-seats lever if your car uses a mechanical system, or a small "P" or "EPB" button on the center console for an electronic setup.
Understanding where to find the emergency brake matters for safe parking and starting procedures. The Dodge lineup uses two main configurations, and the exact location varies by year, trim, and model such as Charger, Challenger, Durango, or Ram pickup.
Two main types of Dodge parking brakes
Here's how to identify and use the two common configurations you may encounter in Dodge vehicles.
- Traditional handbrake lever: Look for a long lever between the front seats in the center console area. Pull up to engage the brake; release by pressing the button at the end of the lever and lowering it gently.
- Electronic parking brake (EPB) switch: Look for a small switch or button labeled with a "P" or "EPB" on the center console, often near the shifter or cupholders. To engage, either pull up on the switch or press it, depending on the design; to release, press the switch again or follow the vehicle’s instructions (some cars auto-release when you press the accelerator).
- Hybrid/advanced setups: Some models combine EPB with auto-hold or auto-release features. If you don’t see a lever, check the dash or instrument cluster for a parking-brake symbol and consult the owner’s manual for precise steps.
In brief, your Dodge's emergency brake is either a lever between the seats or a console-mounted switch, with variations by model and year.
Model-specific notes
Dodge Challenger
Most Challenger variants that use a traditional parking brake place a lever between the front seats. On some later trims with electronic systems, you’ll find a small EPB switch on the center console near the shifter. Check the glovebox manual for your exact year and trim.
Dodge Charger
Charger models span many generations with differing configurations. Earlier Chargers commonly used a center-console handbrake lever, while many newer examples use an electronic parking brake switch on the center console. If you’re unsure, locate the "P" or EPB symbol on the center console or consult the owner’s manual.
Dodge Durango
Durango’s parking brake setup varies; some trims use a traditional lever, others use an EPB switch on the center console. Look for a "P" button on the lower portion of the center stack or near the gear selector.
Dodge Ram (truck line)
Recent Ram trucks commonly use an electronic parking brake switch, usually on the center console near the shifter. A small "P" or EPB symbol marks the control. Some older Rams may use a handbrake lever, but EPB is the norm in current models.
Summary
To locate the emergency brake on a Dodge, identify whether your vehicle uses a traditional handbrake lever or an electronic parking brake switch. Check the center console area between the front seats for a lever, or look for a "P" or EPB button on the console or dash. When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or contact a Dodge dealership to confirm the exact location for your model and year.
