How Do I Turn Off My Electronic Parking Brake

Why Would You Want to Turn Off Your Electronic Parking Brake?

The electronic parking brake (EPB) has become a standard feature in modern vehicles, offering convenience and added safety. However, there may be situations where you want to temporarily disable or turn off your EPB. Here are a few reasons why you might want to do so:

• Vehicle Staging: When you’re staging a vehicle for a photoshoot or a car show, you may need to disable the EPB to show off certain features or perform certain maneuvers that would be restricted with the brake engaged.
• Towing or Pushing: If your vehicle needs to be towed or pushed, it’s important to disable the EPB to prevent damage to the braking system. Towing or pushing a vehicle with the EPB engaged can cause excessive strain on the brake components.
• Performing Maintenance: During routine maintenance or repairs that require the wheels to be off the ground, disabling the EPB is necessary to allow the wheels to spin freely. This ensures ease of accessing various components, such as brakes, suspension, or wheel hubs.
• Emergency Situations: In rare cases, the EPB may malfunction or become unresponsive, preventing you from moving your vehicle. In such instances, being able to temporarily disable the EPB can help you regain control and safely move the vehicle to a more suitable location.
• Specific Road Conditions: Certain road conditions, such as steep inclines covered in ice or snow, can cause the EPB to engage excessively or prematurely. Disabling the EPB in these situations can help prevent any unintended braking and allow for better control of the vehicle.

It’s important to note that while there may be valid reasons to disable the EPB temporarily, it should always be re-engaged once the situation no longer necessitates its deactivation. This ensures the safety and proper functioning of the braking system in normal driving conditions.

Option 1: Disabling the Electronic Parking Brake through the In-Car Controls

If you want to disable the electronic parking brake (EPB) through the in-car controls, follow these steps:

1. Locate the EPB control switch in your vehicle. It is usually located either on the center console or the dashboard.
2. Ensure that your vehicle is parked in a safe and secure location, with the engine running or at least in the “on” position.
3. Depress the brake pedal fully with your foot.
4. Engage the EPB release button or switch. This action will typically disable the EPB, allowing you to move the vehicle without the brake engaging automatically.
5. Verify that the EPB is no longer engaged by gently attempting to move the vehicle forward or backward. If the vehicle moves freely, the EPB has been successfully disabled.

It’s important to remember that this method of disabling the EPB may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your car’s EPB controls.

Once you have completed the necessary tasks that required the EPB to be disabled, it is crucial to re-engage the EPB before setting off on your journey. Failure to do so can compromise the safety of your vehicle and potentially lead to unintended movement or accidents.

Option 2: Disabling the Electronic Parking Brake through the Vehicle Settings

Another method to disable the electronic parking brake (EPB) is by accessing the vehicle’s settings. This option is available in some newer vehicles equipped with advanced infotainment systems. Follow these general steps:

1. Start by turning on the ignition of your vehicle.
2. Locate the “Settings” or “Menu” button on your infotainment system’s screen. The exact location and appearance may vary based on the manufacturer and model.
3. Enter the settings menu and look for the “Vehicle” or “Driving” section.
4. Browse through the available options until you find “Electronic Parking Brake” or a related setting.
5. Select the “Disable” or “Deactivate” option to turn off the EPB.

It’s important to note that the menu options and terminology may differ depending on the vehicle’s make and model. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions tailored to your car’s infotainment system and settings.

Remember to re-enable the EPB through the settings menu once you have completed the task or situation that required it to be temporarily disabled. This ensures the EPB is functioning correctly for normal use and guarantees your safety when parking the vehicle.

Option 3: Turning off the Electronic Parking Brake during an Emergency

In rare emergency situations, you may need to quickly disable the electronic parking brake (EPB) to regain control of your vehicle and ensure your safety. Follow these steps:

1. If your vehicle has a start/stop button, press and hold it for at least five seconds. This action will force the vehicle to shut off completely, including the EPB system. If your vehicle does not have a start/stop button, proceed to the next step.
2. Locate the fuse box or power distribution box in your vehicle. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find its exact location.
3. Remove the fuse or relay that corresponds to the EPB system. Your owner’s manual should indicate which fuse or relay is responsible for controlling the EPB functionality.
4. With the EPB fuse or relay removed, attempt to move the vehicle. The EPB should now be disabled, allowing you to carefully maneuver the vehicle to safety.

Note that disabling the EPB during an emergency should only be done as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted. It is crucial to contact emergency services and seek professional assistance as soon as possible to address the underlying issue causing the emergency situation.

Once the emergency is resolved and the vehicle is in a safe location, it is important to re-enable the EPB or have it inspected by a professional to ensure proper functionality before resuming normal driving.

Option 4: Disabling the Electronic Parking Brake for Routine Maintenance

When performing routine maintenance or repairs on your vehicle that involves lifting the wheels off the ground, it is necessary to disable the electronic parking brake (EPB) to allow for free wheel movement. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Start by ensuring that your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off.
2. Locate the EPB control switch or button in your vehicle. It is usually found on the center console or the dashboard.
3. Depress the brake pedal and hold it down firmly.
4. Engage the EPB release button or switch. This will disable the EPB, allowing the wheels to spin freely.
5. Verify that the EPB is completely disengaged by attempting to turn the wheels by hand. They should rotate without any resistance.

Remember, always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions related to disabling the EPB for maintenance purposes. The process can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Once your maintenance work is complete, be sure to re-engage the EPB before operating the vehicle. Failure to do so can compromise the safety of your vehicle and potentially lead to unexpected movement or accidents.

Option 5: Seeking Professional Help to Turn off the Electronic Parking Brake

If you’re uncertain or uncomfortable with disabling the electronic parking brake (EPB) yourself, it’s always best to seek professional assistance. A qualified mechanic or technician will have the necessary expertise and tools to safely address any issues related to the EPB system in your vehicle.

Here are a few reasons why you might consider seeking professional help:

• Complexity of the Process: Some vehicles may have intricate systems that require specialized knowledge to disable the EPB properly. Professional technicians are trained to handle these complexities and can ensure the task is completed without any risks.
• Preserving Warranty and Maintenance Coverage: Modifying or tampering with certain components in your vehicle, including the EPB system, without professional guidance can potentially void warranties or maintenance coverage. Seeking professional help ensures that any necessary actions are taken within the guidelines of your vehicle’s warranty.
• Diagnosing and Addressing Underlying Issues: If you’re experiencing difficulties with the EPB system or suspect a malfunction, a professional technician can perform a comprehensive diagnostic check to identify the root cause. They can also provide necessary repairs or replace faulty components to restore proper functionality.
• Ensuring Safety and Compliance: Professional technicians have the expertise to ensure that the EPB is disabled and re-enabled correctly, adhering to safety standards and regulations. This helps maintain the overall safety of your vehicle and prevents any potential risks or accidents.

When seeking professional help, be sure to choose a reputable auto service center or dealership with trained technicians who are experienced in handling EPB systems. They will have the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and address any issues related to the EPB in a safe and effective manner.

Remember, the safety of yourself and others on the road is of utmost importance, so don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance when needed.