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Electric Parking Brake Stuck On

An electric parking brake that will not release usually has a low battery voltage, a faulty switch, a seized rear caliper or a failed actuator motor. Many cars only release it with the engine running and the brake pedal pressed.

Normal risk

Do not force the car to drive with the brake applied. Try the correct release procedure first.

Short answer · Why won't my electric parking brake release?

Electric parking brakes use small motors on the rear calipers. Most only release with the ignition on, the brake pedal pressed and sometimes the seat belt fastened. A weak battery may not power the motors. A seized caliper, a failed motor or a switch fault can also keep it on. Some cars have an emergency release procedure in the owner's manual.

On this page

Safe checks you can do

  1. Use the normal release stepsIgnition on or engine running, brake pedal pressed, then the switch.
  2. Check the batteryLow voltage can stop the motors working.
  3. Read the owner's manualMany cars describe an emergency release method.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Is there a warning light or message?The system has stored a fault.
  2. Is the battery weak?The motors may lack power.
  3. Did it happen after a long park in the cold?Brakes can freeze to the discs.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Low battery voltageMotors cannot run.
  2. Faulty switchRelease request not sent.
  3. Failed actuator motorBrake stays applied.
  4. Seized rear caliperMechanism cannot retract.
  5. Frozen brakesPads stuck to discs in frost.

Questions about Electric Parking Brake Stuck On

Can I drive off with the brake on?

No. It overheats the rear brakes and can damage the motors.

Does a new battery need setup?

Some cars need battery registration for electrical systems to work correctly.