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Why is my car saying release the parking brake?

If your car is displaying a warning message to release the parking brake, it means the vehicle's onboard computer has detected that the parking brake is still engaged, even though you may have already released it. This is a common issue that can occur for a variety of reasons, and it's important to address it promptly to ensure your car is operating safely.


Reasons Why Your Car May Display This Warning



  • Parking Brake is Still Engaged: The most obvious reason for this warning is that the parking brake has not been fully released. This could be due to a mechanical issue with the parking brake system or simply because the driver has not fully disengaged the brake.

  • Parking Brake Sensor Malfunction: Your car's parking brake system includes a sensor that detects when the brake is engaged or released. If this sensor is malfunctioning, it may incorrectly report that the brake is still on, even when it has been released.

  • Electrical or Computer Issue: In some cases, the warning message may be triggered by an electrical or computer-related problem in the vehicle's systems, rather than a physical issue with the parking brake itself.


If you see this warning message, it's important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid potential damage to your vehicle or safety concerns while driving.


Steps to Resolve the "Release Parking Brake" Warning



  • Check the Parking Brake: Physically inspect the parking brake to ensure it is fully released. This may involve checking the lever or pedal to make sure it has returned to the fully disengaged position.

  • Inspect the Parking Brake System: If the brake appears to be released, there may be an issue with the parking brake mechanism or sensor. Consult your owner's manual or a mechanic to diagnose and repair any problems with the parking brake system.

  • Reset the Parking Brake System: In some cases, simply resetting the parking brake system by fully engaging and then releasing it again can resolve the warning message.

  • Check for Electrical or Computer Issues: If the physical parking brake system appears to be functioning correctly, the warning message may be due to an electrical or computer-related problem. This may require diagnostic testing by a mechanic to identify and fix the underlying issue.


By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the "release parking brake" warning on your vehicle, ensuring your car is operating safely and efficiently.

Why is my car saying the parking brake is on when it's not?


Faulty parking brake switch
This parking brake switch is a crucial part of your vehicle's braking system and is responsible for activating the light on your dashboard when the parking brake is engaged. When this switch malfunctions, it can cause the light to stay on even when the brake is disengaged.



Why is my car saying check parking brake?


It could be on for several reasons - your parking brake is on, your brake pads are worn or your brake fluid is low.



Why does it say release parking brake?


This light reminds you to release the brake before driving. When you disengage the brake, the light should also turn off. If the warning light remains on after you've released the parking brake, it's usually due to either the brake not being fully released or a broken parking brake switch.



How to fix a release parking brake?


To release a stuck brake you can do several things. If it is safe to do so, you can try rocking the vehicle back and forth or manually getting under the vehicle to pull the cables. You can also try setting and releasing the brake multiple times in the hopes of knocking the brakes free.



Why does my car say release the parking brake?


This light reminds you to release the brake before driving. When you disengage the brake, the light should also turn off. If the warning light remains on after you've released the parking brake, it's usually due to either the brake not being fully released or a broken parking brake switch.



How do I clear my parking brake light?


Sometimes, the right solution is usually the simplest one. The reason why your parking brake light stays on is that you didn't properly disengage the lever or handle. The parking brake lever or handle must be completely lowered to disengage the braking system, so the light indicator goes away.



What two reasons would cause your brake system warning light to come on?


Why is the brake light on while driving? When your brake light comes on, your car is letting you know that either your vehicle is low on brake fluid, the emergency brake is activated, there's trouble within the ABS unit, or there's a problem with the sensors.



How do you reset a parking brake?


Press and hold the EPB switch until the brake warning light on the instrument panel starts to flash. Continue to hold the switch until the flash goes off. 4. Release the switch and press it again, the parking brake should now be reset.



How to know if brake fluid is low?


Brake Lights - If you see the letters ABS pop up on your instrument cluster, chances are you're low on brake fluid. This light lets you know that there's an issue with your anti-lock braking system. If the parking brake is disengaged but you still see the word BRAKE, that's another sign that your fluid levels are low.



How to get parking brake light off?


The reason why your parking brake light stays on is that you didn't properly disengage the lever or handle. The parking brake lever or handle must be completely lowered to disengage the braking system, so the light indicator goes away.


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.