Where is the Ford parking brake?
The parking brake in Ford vehicles is usually either a traditional hand lever between the front seats or an electronic parking brake switch on the center console, with exact placement depending on model and year.
Understanding the parking brake options in Ford vehicles
Ford uses a few configurations for the parking brake across its lineup. Here's a quick guide to what you might find in your car:
- A traditional hand-operated lever between the front seats. This manual brake is common on older Ford cars and some utility models. You pull the lever up to engage and release based on design.
- A foot-operated parking brake pedal in the driver’s footwell. Less common in newer passenger cars but still present on some trucks and older models. Press the pedal to engage; release by either pressing again or easing off, depending on the system.
- An electronic parking brake (EPB) switch on the center console or near the gear shifter. This is standard on many newer Ford models. It bears a P symbol or is labeled EPB. Engage by pressing or pulling the switch; release using the same switch or by applying the brake pedal as directed by the system.
Whichever type your Ford has, the owner’s manual or a quick model-specific lookup will confirm the exact location and operation. If you share your model and year, I can give precise guidance.
Where to find the EPB in modern Ford interiors
In the latest Ford hybrids and passenger cars, the EPB lives on the center console near the gear selector, typically alongside other drive mode controls. Some trims also place a small release switch on the dash or within a covered panel that slides open.
Tips for identifying by model year
As Ford updated its interiors, EPB became more common from the mid-2010s onward. If your vehicle looks like it has a sleek center console with a small P-marked button, you likely have EPB. If there’s a tall lever between the front seats, you’re dealing with a traditional hand brake. For trucks and older models, you might see a floor-mounted pedal on the far left of the driver's footwell.
Safety reminders and maintenance
Always engage the parking brake when parking on an incline. If the brake feels sticky or won’t hold, have it inspected, as a failing parking brake can affect vehicle security and safety. For EPB systems, follow the owner's manual for release procedures, especially when towing or using auto-hold features.
Summary
Ford offers multiple parking brake configurations across its range, from classic hand levers to modern electronic switches. Location depends on model and year, so check your manual or provide your exact model for precise directions. Key takeaway: between-seat hand lever on older models; foot pedal on some trucks; or EPB switch on the center console in most newer cars.
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 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
Where is the parking brake on a 2025 Ford Expedition?
Your vehicle has an electric parking brake. You operate it with a switch instead of a lever. The switch is on the center console or to the left-hand side of the steering wheel, on the lower part of the instrument panel. Note: The electric parking brake makes noises during operation.
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.
