Vehicles with the electric parking brake have a switch in the center console, which takes the place of the manual parking brake system, the foot pedal and release handle. In case of insufficient electrical power, the electric parking brake cannot be applied or released.
Electric Parking Brake Control Module
The electric parking brake control module has an internal motor, apply actuator, release actuator, and temperature sensor. The electric parking brake control module also contains the logic for applying and releasing the parking brake when commanded by the electric parking brake switch. When the electric parking brake control module receives a signal from the switch the internal circuit board temperature is checked to verify it is within operating range before the control module performs the requested operation.
Electric Parking Brake Apply
The electric parking brake can be applied any time the vehicle is stopped or in motion. The electric parking brake is applied by momentarily lifting up on the electric parking brake switch. The red park brake light will momentarily flash while the parking brake is being applied. Once fully applied, the red park brake light will turn on. If the electric parking brake is applied while the vehicle is in motion, a chime will sound, and the message "Release Park Brake Switch" will be displayed.
If the red park brake light is flashing, the electric parking brake is only partially applied or released, or there is a problem with the electric parking brake. The message "Service Park Brake" will be displayed.
Electric Parking Brake Release
To release the electric parking brake, turn the ignition switch to the ON or RUN position, apply and hold the brake pedal, and push down momentarily on the electric parking brake switch. When the electric parking brake is released the red park brake light turns off.
The electric parking brake can be used to prevent roll back for vehicles with a manual transmission taking off on a hill. In a situation where no roll back is desired, an applied electric parking brake will allow both feet to be used for the clutch and accelerator pedals in preparation for starting the vehicle moving in the intended direction. In this situation, perform the normal clutch and accelerator actions required to begin moving the vehicle. There is no need to push the switch to release the electric parking brake. To disable this feature lift and hold the electric parking brake switch while the vehicle is in motion, this will keep the electric parking brake applied.
