How to use the electronic parking brake safely for the driver.
Although electronic parking brakes have become common on many car models, many users still do not fully understand this type of brake.
What is an electronic parking brake?
An electronic parking brake, also known as an electronic parking brake, is an automatically controlled parking brake that ensures safety during stopping and parking situations.
The electronic parking brake is identified by the letter P inside a circle near the gear lever or dashboard. The brake is fully automatic; the driver doesn't need to apply any force, simply pressing the electronic parking brake button. The electronic brake immediately engages the vehicle's braking system, eliminating the risk of forgetting to engage the brake or not engaging it fully.
How electronic parking brake works
Electronic brakes consist of three main components: an actuator/electric motor, an electronic brake module, and an electrical control switch in the cabin.
When the Electronic Stability Program (EPB) is activated, the electronic parking brake module receives the command and applies the brakes. Because this braking system operates electronically and automatically, it allows for quick and effective braking.
To release the brakes automatically, the driver simply needs to press the accelerator pedal. This is very convenient and easy because the driver does not need to perform any mechanical action to deactivate the braking system.
The electronic parking brake also uses an electric motor to operate, assisting in releasing and engaging the brake via a lever marked with the letter P. If the driver carelessly forgets to engage the brake when stopping/parking on a slope, the system will activate quickly.
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The electronic parking brake is operated via a lever marked with the letter P. Photo: Nguyen Long |
Advantages of electronic parking brake
Electronic parking brakes were developed with the aim of optimizing braking safety in automobiles, simplifying the dashboard and interior space. As a result, cars using this type of parking brake are considered more luxurious and modern.
In addition, the electronic parking brake has the feature of automatically deactivating when the vehicle is in motion and the ability to automatically hold the brake when the vehicle stops on an incline. This ensures greater safety for users.
Another significant advantage of electronic parking brakes is their ability to reduce the risk for drivers who forget to use the parking brake, as well as ensuring the safety of the vehicle's drivetrain during use. This is because the operating principle of this type of brake is designed to assist in such situations.
In particular, drivers can use the electronic emergency braking feature safely even while accelerating, helping them to react promptly to emergency and dangerous situations while driving on the road.
How to use the electronic parking brake in a car in different situations:
While driving
Drivers can perform emergency parking while driving by pulling and holding the electronic brake switch. The vehicle will brake gradually as the driver pulls the switch. The indicator light will then turn red, a warning bell will sound, and the brake lights will illuminate. The electronic brake will be activated when the vehicle speed drops below 3 km/h.
Release the brake
When the engine switch is on: The driver lightly presses the switch while pressing the brake pedal or engaging the P gear. At this point, the LED on the switch and the indicator light in the instrument cluster will turn off, indicating that the parking brake is released.
Automatic release
To release the parking brake automatically, the driver should use the accelerator pedal. When the electronic parking brake is released, the LED and indicator lights will turn off. Under the following conditions, the parking brake will automatically release by using the accelerator pedal:
The engine is running.
- The car is in gear.
- The driver's seatbelt is fastened and all the doors are closed.
Normally, when the electronic parking brake malfunctions, the system will immediately warn the driver. If, during driving, the brake fails, use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling when the driver exits the vehicle.
Overall, electronic parking brakes are an advanced braking system used in many modern cars. Using a vehicle equipped with an electronic parking brake will give drivers greater peace of mind and safety while driving.