Parking Brake Malfunction [Steps to Fix]

Most newer vehicles come with electric parking brakes, which are aesthetically pleasing and clutter-free. There have been issues with electric parking brakes, even though it seems like a great improvement. 

If you’re not familiar with electric parking brakes, here are some common problems. In addition, we offer some simple solutions you can try. In addition, the book includes answers to your most commonly asked questions. 

What Are Electric Parking Brakes?

The electric parking brake (EPB) was first installed on BMW 7 Series models in 2001. Though it wasn’t widely adopted overnight, it eventually found its way into some modern vehicles.

Activating the EPB in the car involves pressing a button. Rear wheels are electrically braked through actuator motors and ECUs. 

The advantages and disadvantages of modern systems are both present.

The benefits of electronic handbrakes

• Activate the brake without physically touching it
• Reduces car space requirements
• An improved appearance
• Driving disengages many automatic transmissions
• When a car is parked, many of these are automatically applied. 

The cons of electronic handbrakes

• The cost of repairing it is higher
• Drifting isn’t possible with it
• A reduced sense of security about the car

Problems With Electric Parking Brakes

The most common cause of these problems is a damaged or stuck caliper piston motor. It is also possible to have problems with the buttons and wiring of the electric parking brake. The battery voltage can also be low and the programming improper. 

Here are some possibilities you may face. 

1. Piston motors that are stuck or damaged

In the beginning, when the electric parking brake was released, an electric motor tugged on the parking brake cables. As a result, newer technology began using brake actuator motors instead of cables to prevent seized cables.

Directly behind the rear brake calipers are reversible motors that drive these actuators. Regular maintenance is important in order to prevent these motors from becoming damaged or stuck. There is a possibility that the brake will not engage or disengage because of this problem. 

2. Problems with the parking brake buttons

An electric parking brake can be engaged by pressing a console button. By getting into the button, dirt and debris can stick and cause malfunctions. In addition to spilling drinks on the console, you can also get liquid inside the button. 

Some buttons can be restored to their original functionality by cleaning them. It may be necessary to replace the device in severe cases. 

3. Problems with wiring

There are a series of wires and connectors connecting the parking brake button to the brake system. A damaged wire or a faulty connector can occur with any electric connection. Connection problems can also be caused by dirt and debris.

It is easy to inspect the wiring in the center console since most of it is located there. If you don’t know what you are doing, you need to always take care when working with electrical systems. 

4. Low voltage battery

It is necessary to have power in order to run the electric parking brake. You may not be able to disengage the brake if your car battery dies or produces very little voltage.

Many people have experienced this problem when they had to move their cars to jump-start them. In this situation, the car is unable to be pushed by any means. To overcome this problem, some vehicles have been equipped with a manual release system. 

5. Incorrect programming or reset of the system

Resetting the system is necessary after replacing brake pads with electric brakes. In order to reset the calipers, you must use a compatible scanner. 

The parking brake may not engage or disengage properly if you fail to do this. A dashboard warning light might also be present. 

6 Steps To Fix Electric Parking Brakes

A number of methods are available to help you fix an electric parking brake that has malfunctioned. As a reminder, if you aren’t a mechanic, don’t try to fix the car yourself. Instead, take it to a professional.

1. Use a scanner that can read codes

OBD-II ports are typically located under the steering wheel near the driver’s door in modern cars. By using a scan tool compatible with the computer, you can view the trouble codes. 

Identifying brake codes and fixing them may be possible if they have been set. For more information on the most common DTCs, check out our comprehensive trouble code library.

2. Take care of the parking brake switch by cleaning or replacing it

Whenever possible, you should clean up the switch thoroughly if the switch is the culprit. Remove debris from the switch’s crevices by using a clean rag. If you are having trouble dislodging anything stuck, you can also use compressed air.

There could be a problem with the wiring, connectors, or fuses if the switch still doesn’t work after cleaning it. Ensure all electronics are visually inspected by removing the console’s cover. Anything that is damaged or broken needs to be replaced immediately. 

3. Brake Caliper Motor Inspection

The brake caliper actuator motors need to be inspected next. Many older mechanics aren’t familiar with the newer electronic systems, so this job isn’t suitable for just anyone.

Our recommendation is that you read your car’s service manual to learn how to do this yourself. The system’s diagrams and schematics should also make your job easier, as they provide detailed information. 

4. Check the electric caliper motor voltage

It is important to note that the manufacturer’s recommendations should always prevail over our guidance. You should follow the instructions in your service manual instead if it instructs you differently. 

Here are a few guidelines if you do not have instructions. 

1. Direct current (DC) should be set on your multimeter.
2. The main wiring harness should have leads on both ends.
3. Minimum, ideally zero, is the ideal reading.
4. The parking brake should be set by a friend before starting the engine. 
5. Generally, an actuator needs 10 to 12 volts of electricity to operate. 
6. It’s most likely that the fuse or wiring is blown if the voltage is below ten or there is no voltage at all. 
7. Also, check for continuity in the actuator solenoid windings. The leads should be connected together for a self-test. A 0 ohm result should be obtained. 
8. Connect both ends of the connector if the self-test works.
9. In most cases, the beeping is caused by a switch, not an actuator winding.
10. The actuator solenoid needs to be replaced if it does not beep.

5. Use the scanner again after resetting codes

Changing the back brakes or making other adjustments to the system will require you to update the system with a compatible scanner. The brake warning lights can be turned off with your code scanner. 

The advanced scanner should also be capable of relearning. In case that doesn’t work, consider upgrading to something more professional. 

6. Consult a professional

The electric parking brake system is not something you should be expected to understand. This new design is difficult to learn even for old-school mechanics. If you don’t have the tools or are overwhelmed, you can always ask a mechanic for help.

To We recommend reading online reviews to find a reliable mechanic. To find out who other people use, ask your coworkers, family, and friends. Request a detailed estimate showing parts and labor costs before you get any work done. 

Does a problem with your electric parking brake affect your ability to drive?

Engaging the electric parking brake is not a good idea unless you are going somewhere. A damaged back brake can cause your vehicle to wear out rapidly. Parking brakes that do not engage will not pose any problems while driving. You cannot apply the brakes if you are parked.

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