The Electric Parking Brake (EPB) can always be activated, even if the ignition is off. To prevent draining the battery, avoid repeated cycles of the EPB when the engine is not running.
The system has a red parking brake status light and an amber parking brake warning light. There are also parking brake-related Driver Information Center (DIC) messages.
In case of insufficient electrical power, the EPB cannot be applied or released.
Before leaving the vehicle, check the red parking brake status light to ensure that the parking brake is applied.
EPB Apply
To apply the EPB:
1. Be sure the vehicle is at a complete stop.
2. Pull the EPB switch momentarily.
The red parking brake status light will flash and then stay on once the EPB is fully applied. If the red parking brake status light flashes continuously, then the EPB is only partially applied or there is a problem with the EPB. A DIC message will display. Release the EPB and try to apply it again. If the light does not come on, or keeps flashing, have the vehicle serviced.
Do not drive the vehicle if the red parking brake status light is flashing.
See your dealer.
If the amber parking brake warning light is on, pull the EPB switch.
Continue to hold the switch until the red parking brake status light remains on. If the amber parking brake warning light is on, see your dealer.
If the EPB is applied while the vehicle is moving, the vehicle will decelerate as long as the switch is pulled. If the switch is pulled until the vehicle comes to a stop, the EPB will remain applied.
The vehicle may automatically apply the EPB in some situations when the vehicle is not moving. This is normal, and is done to periodically check the correct operation of the EPB system.
If the EPB fails to apply, block the rear wheels to prevent vehicle movement.
EPB Release
To release the EPB:
1. Turn the ignition on or to ACC/ ACCESSORY.
2. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
3. Press the EPB switch momentarily.
The EPB is released when the red parking brake status light is off.
If the amber parking brake warning light is on, release the EPB by pressing and holding the EPB switch. Continue to hold the switch until the red parking brake status light is off. If either light stays on after release is attempted, see your dealer.
Caution: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts.
Make sure that the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off before driving.
Automatic EPB Release
The EPB will automatically release if the vehicle is running, placed into gear, and an attempt is made to drive away. Avoid rapid acceleration when the EPB is applied, to preserve parking brake lining life.