Why wont my parking brake turn off?
The parking brake not releasing is usually caused by a stuck release, a faulty electronic parking brake component, or hydraulic pressure that won’t relieve. If the brake remains engaged, do not drive the vehicle and seek professional help to prevent brake damage or unsafe conditions.
In this article, we’ll break down the common reasons a parking brake stays applied, explain how to assess the situation safely, and outline when it’s time to call for roadside assistance or a mechanic. We’ll also offer practical steps for different brake system designs and what to expect during a professional inspection.
Understanding the possible causes
Brake systems fall into a few broad categories, and a failure in any one area can keep the parking brake engaged. Below are the typical culprits, organized by mechanism.
Mechanical causes
These issues involve the physical components that apply and release the brakes.
- Seized or stretched parking brake cable, or a jammed release lever inside the console, which keeps the shoes or pads pressed against the rotor or drum.
- Worn or corroded drums and shoes that bind and do not release smoothly.
- Faulty handbrake lever or linkage that doesn’t return to the disengaged position.
Mechanical problems are often the easiest to identify visually or by feeling a stiff or binding lever, and they typically require inspection and replacement of worn parts or lubrication of moving components.
Electronic and electrical causes
These involve the electronic parking brake system, sensors, and power supply.
- EPB motor or actuator failure, which prevents the system from releasing the brake.
- Faulty or corroded EPB switch, control module, or wiring that fails to send or receive the release signal.
- Blown fuses or a depleted battery that disables the EPB system.
Electrical issues may cause the brake light to stay on or trigger fault codes detectable with a scan tool.
Hydraulic and drum-related causes
Some designs use hydraulic actuation or drum brakes for the rear wheels.
- Stuck caliper piston or hydraulic lock in a rear brake circuit, preventing retraction of the parking brake mechanism.
- Low brake fluid or a brake hydraulic leak that creates pressure imbalances and prevents release when the system is pressurized.
Hydraulic-related failures can be more complex, often requiring a brake system inspection and possibly fluid service or caliper rebuilding.
Immediate safety steps you can take
Before attempting any checks, consider safety first. A stuck parking brake can overheat components or cause loss of control if you move the vehicle improperly.
- Do not force the brake pedal or lever. If you can’t safely release it, pull over to a safe location and call for assistance.
- Check for dashboard warnings (EPB, brake, ABS) and listen for abnormal noises when attempting to release.
- For electronic parking brakes, try the standard release procedure: with the engine on and your foot firmly on the brake, use the EPB release switch or button as described in your owner’s manual. If the light remains on and the brake stays engaged, stop and seek help.
- For mechanical handbrakes, consult the owner’s manual for the emergency release procedure. Do not improvise methods not documented by the manufacturer.
- If you’re unsure or the situation worsens (smell of burning, smoke, or visible fluid leakage), contact roadside assistance instead of attempting further DIY fixes.
Following these steps reduces the risk of brake damage and keeps you out of harm’s way while awaiting professional help.
When to seek professional help
Certain signs indicate it’s time to bring in a technician rather than continued DIY troubleshooting.
- The parking brake won’t release after following the standard procedures, and multiple attempts yield no change.
- Warning lights remain illuminated, or you notice a burning smell, smoke, or leaking fluid near the brakes.
- You hear grinding, rubbing, or clunking noises from the rear wheels when attempting to release or apply the brakes.
- Diagnostic trouble codes appear in an OBD-II scan related to EPB or ABS systems, or the system won’t communicate with a scan tool.
- Your vehicle has a dead battery or significant electrical issue that could affect the EPB system.
In these cases, a qualified technician can diagnose whether the fault is mechanical, electronic, or hydraulic and perform a safe release and repair as needed.
Prevention and routine maintenance
Routine upkeep can reduce the likelihood of a parking brake sticking or failing to release in the future.
- Have parking brake cables and hardware inspected for corrosion, wear, or fraying during regular brake service, and replace any worn components.
- Ensure EPB components (motor, actuator, switch, and control module) are tested and calibrated during brake service, especially after tire or rotor work.
- Monitor brake fluid level and address leaks promptly to prevent hydraulic binding that could affect release.
Regular maintenance helps prevent sudden failures and keeps the braking system reliable and safe.
Summary
A parking brake that won’t turn off is typically caused by a mechanical binding, an electronic parking brake fault, or hydraulic issues. Start with a safe assessment, use the appropriate release method for your system, and seek professional help if the brake remains engaged or warning indicators persist. Regular maintenance and inspections are key to preventing future incidents and maintaining brake safety.
Why is my electronic parking brake stuck on?
A stuck parking brake often results from seized caliper pistons or corroded cables, especially after months unused. Start by inspecting the electronic parking brake (EPB) actuator and wiring for faults. Manually release the brake if possible, then clean and lubricate caliper components.
What to do if the parking brake won't turn off?
First, try fully pressing and releasing the brake pedal, then attempt to disengage the parking brake again. Sometimes, the system needs to confirm brake pressure before it can release. Check all fuses associated with the electronic parking brake system; a blown fuse is often the simplest explanation for this issue.
How do I reset my parking brake?
To reset an electronic parking brake, first ensure the vehicle is in park and start the engine. Then, press and hold the brake pedal while pressing and holding the parking brake switch for several seconds until a light flashes on the dashboard. Release the pedal and the switch, then press the switch again to engage it. For a stuck traditional brake, try rocking the car or repeatedly engaging and releasing the brake.
Electronic parking brake reset
This video demonstrates how to reset the electronic parking brake: 58sWeeklyToolsYouTube · Jul 6, 2023
- Start the engine: Turn the car on, but keep your foot on the brake pedal.
- Enter service mode: Press and hold the parking brake switch for about 10 seconds until a flashing yellow light appears on the dashboard.
- Release and re-engage: Release both the brake pedal and the parking brake switch.
- Finalize the reset: Press the parking brake switch again. The light should stop flashing, indicating service mode is active.
- Auto-adjust: After the reset, cycle the parking brake on and off 6 to 7 times to allow the system to auto-adjust.
Stuck traditional parking brake
This video demonstrates how to release a stuck parking brake: 0:28Despair RepairYouTube · Aug 27, 2023
- Engage and disengage: Try repeatedly applying and releasing the parking brake lever or pedal.
- Rock the vehicle: If safe, gently shift between drive and reverse a few times while attempting to release the brake.
- Check for corrosion: Visually inspect the parking brake cables underneath the car for rust or corrosion.
- Seek professional help: If the brake is still stuck, call for roadside assistance or a tow and have it serviced by a mechanic.
Manual reset if the EPB motor fails
This video demonstrates how to manually release the electronic parking brake: 57sGarage GurusYouTube · Jan 9, 2018
- Remove the motor: Carefully remove the EPB motor from the caliper after lifting the vehicle and supporting it securely.
- Retract the piston: Use a tool to manually turn the caliper piston back in. A specific socket or a T40 Torx bit may be needed depending on the vehicle.
- Reassemble: Reverse the procedure to reassemble the components, and drive the vehicle to allow the system to recalibrate.
