You hop into your automatic car, ready to hit the road — but the parking brake is still on. If you’re unsure how to release it, you’re not alone. Many drivers, especially new ones, often find themselves confused by the different types of parking brakes modern vehicles use.
From traditional hand levers to foot pedals and even electronic buttons, knowing how to properly disengage the parking brake is essential for a smooth and safe drive. I’ll break down the steps to release the parking brake on an automatic car, no matter which system your vehicle uses — so you can drive off with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
Image by ride.car.blog
What Is a Parking Brake and Why Does It Matter?
The parking brake—sometimes called the emergency brake or handbrake—is your car’s backup plan to keep it from rolling when parked, especially on hills. In automatic cars, it works alongside the transmission’s “Park” setting to hold the car in place.
It’s a lifesaver in situations where the transmission alone might not be enough, like on steep inclines. I learned this the hard way when my Dodge Ram rolled slightly on a hill because I didn’t engage the parking brake—yikes!
Knowing how to release the parking brake is key to driving safely and avoiding damage to your car. Automatic cars can have different types of parking brakes, and each has its own release method. Let’s dive into the main types you’ll encounter.
Types of Parking Brakes in Automatic Cars
Not all parking brakes are the same. Over the years, I’ve worked on cars with various setups, and here’s what I’ve seen in automatic vehicles:
Hand Lever (Center Console) Brake
This is the classic parking brake, usually a lever between the front seats. You pull it up to engage and push it down to release. My old Toyota Corolla had this, and it was straightforward but sometimes stiff if not used often.
Foot Pedal Brake
Some cars, like my neighbor’s Chevy Silverado, have a foot pedal on the driver’s side floor. You press it down to engage and release it with a lever or button. These can be tricky if you’re not used to them.
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
Newer cars, like my friend’s BMW 3 Series, use an electronic parking brake activated by a button or switch on the center console. These are super convenient but can confuse new drivers who aren’t sure how to release them.
Push-to-Release Pedal
Less common, but some older automatics, like a Chrysler I worked on, have a pedal you press to engage and press again to release. These can feel odd if you’re expecting a lever.
Each type has its own quirks, so let’s break down how to release them.
How to Release a Hand Lever Parking Brake
The hand lever brake is the most common in older automatic cars. Here’s how I release it on cars like my Mustang:
- Start the Car: Turn on the engine and put your foot on the brake pedal. This takes pressure off the parking brake.
- Locate the Lever: It’s usually between the front seats, often with a button on the end.
- Press the Button: Hold the button on the lever’s handle to release the lock.
- Lower the Lever: Gently push or pull the lever down until it’s fully released. You might feel a click.
- Check the Dash: Look for a “BRAKE” or parking brake warning light. If it’s off, you’re good to go.
I had a sticky lever on my Corolla once, and a little WD-40 on the mechanism made it smooth as butter. If it’s stiff, don’t force it—lubricate or check for obstructions.
How to Release a Foot Pedal Parking Brake
Foot pedal brakes are common in trucks and some sedans. Here’s how I handle them, based on my experience with my buddy’s Silverado:
- Start the Engine: Get the car running and press the brake pedal firmly.
- Find the Pedal: Look to the left of the gas and brake pedals, near the driver’s side kick panel.
- Locate the Release Lever: There’s usually a small lever or handle above or near the pedal.
- Pull the Release: Pull the lever gently. You’ll hear a click as the pedal releases.
- Verify Release: The pedal should pop up, and the brake warning light should turn off.
My friend’s Chevy had a release lever that was hard to find at first—it was tucked under the dash. If you don’t see it, check your manual or feel around carefully.
How to Release an Electronic Parking Brake
Electronic parking brakes (EPBs) are becoming standard in newer cars. I dealt with one on a friend’s Audi, and here’s the process:
- Turn on the Ignition: Start the car or put it in “accessory” mode (check your manual).
- Press the Brake Pedal: This is usually required to disengage the EPB.
- Find the EPB Button: It’s often a switch on the center console, marked with a “P” or brake icon.
- Pull or Press the Button: Depending on the car, pull up or press down on the switch. You might hear a motor disengaging.
- Check the Dash: The brake warning light should go off, signaling the brake is released.
My friend’s BMW had an EPB that wouldn’t release once because the battery was low—modern cars can be picky like that. Make sure your battery’s charged.
How to Release a Push-to-Release Pedal Brake
These are rare but still out there. I worked on an old Chrysler with this setup, and here’s how it goes:
- Start the Car: Get the engine running and press the brake pedal.
- Locate the Pedal: It’s similar to a foot pedal brake, on the driver’s side floor.
- Press the Pedal Again: Gently press the pedal down to release it. You’ll feel it pop up.
- Check the Warning Light: Ensure the brake light on the dash turns off.
This type confused me at first—it’s counterintuitive to press again to release. If it doesn’t work, check for a stuck mechanism or low brake fluid.
Common Issues When Releasing the Parking Brake
Sometimes, releasing the parking brake isn’t straightforward. Here’s what I’ve run into:
Stuck or Stiff Hand Lever
If the lever won’t budge, it could be rusted or gummed up. I had this on my Mustang after it sat for a winter. A bit of lubricant and gentle wiggling usually fixes it. Don’t yank too hard—you could damage the cable.
Foot Pedal Won’t Release
A stuck foot pedal might mean a seized cable or a faulty release mechanism. My neighbor’s Silverado had this, and we had to crawl under the dash to free it. If it’s stuck, try rocking the car slightly while pulling the release lever.
Electronic Brake Won’t Disengage
EPBs can fail if the battery is weak or the system malfunctions. My friend’s Audi wouldn’t release the EPB once until we jumped the battery. If it’s electronic and won’t budge, check the battery or call a mechanic.
Brake Warning Light Stays On
If the light stays on after releasing the brake, it could mean low brake fluid, a sensor issue, or a stuck brake. I saw this on my Honda when the fluid was slightly low—topping it off fixed the problem.
Tools You Might Need
Most parking brake releases don’t require tools, but here’s what I keep handy for tricky situations:
- Screwdriver or wrench: For accessing release levers or panels.
- Lubricant (like WD-40): For sticky hand levers or cables.
- Flashlight: To see under the dash or in tight spots.
- Owner’s manual: To check car-specific instructions.
I used a flashlight to find the release lever on my friend’s Chevy—it was a lifesaver in a dim garage.
Cost of Parking Brake Repairs
If you can’t release the parking brake yourself, a shop might be needed. Here’s what I’ve seen for costs:
| Repair | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lubricate Cable | $50-$100 | Quick fix for sticky levers or pedals. |
| Replace Parking Brake Cable | $150-$300 | Common for stuck hand or foot brakes. |
| Electronic Brake Repair | $200-$600 | Includes motor or sensor replacement. |
| Brake Fluid Top-Off | $20-$50 | If low fluid causes issues. |
| Diagnostic Fee | $50-$150 | To pinpoint complex problems. |
I fixed a stuck cable on my Dodge for cheap with some WD-40, but electronic brakes often need a pro.
Why Parking Brakes Get Stuck
Parking brakes don’t just get stuck for no reason. Here’s what I’ve seen cause issues:
- Rust or Corrosion: Cables can rust, especially in snowy or humid areas. My Jeep’s cable seized after a salty winter.
- Lack of Use: If you rarely use the parking brake, it can get stiff. My Toyota’s lever was sticky from sitting unused.
- Low Brake Fluid: Affects some systems, especially EPBs. I topped off my Honda’s fluid to fix a warning light.
- Electrical Issues: Weak batteries or faulty sensors can lock EPBs. My friend’s BMW had this problem.
Knowing these causes helps you prevent problems.
Releasing the Parking Brake on Popular Car Models
Different cars have quirks. Here’s a table of common automatic models and their parking brake setups:
| Car Make/Model | Parking Brake Type | Release Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic (2000-2010) | Hand Lever | Press button, lower lever. |
| Toyota Corolla (2005-2015) | Foot Pedal | Pull release lever under dash. |
| Ford F-150 (2010-2020) | Foot Pedal | Pull release handle near pedal. |
| BMW 3 Series (2015+) | Electronic | Press brake, pull EPB switch. |
| Jeep Wrangler (2007-2018) | Hand Lever | Press button, lower slowly. |
This is based on my experience—your car’s manual will have specifics.
Manual vs. Automatic: Any Differences?
In automatic cars, the parking brake is a backup to the transmission’s “Park” mode. In manuals, it’s often the primary way to keep the car still when parked. The release process is similar, but automatics rely more on the brake pedal to disengage safely. I’ve driven both, and my Mustang (manual) had a hand lever that worked the same as my automatic Honda’s.
When to Call a Professional
If you can’t release the parking brake, don’t force it. A mechanic can diagnose issues like a broken cable or faulty EPB motor. I took my friend’s Audi to a shop when the EPB wouldn’t budge—it was a sensor issue that needed special tools. If you see warning lights or hear grinding, get it checked ASAP.
Preventing Parking Brake Problems
To keep your parking brake working smoothly, here’s what I do:
- Use It Regularly: Engage the brake when parking, especially on hills, to keep cables moving.
- Check Brake Fluid: Look at fluid levels every few months.
- Lubricate Cables: A bit of lubricant on hand or foot brake cables prevents sticking.
- Maintain the Battery: Weak batteries can lock EPBs, so keep it charged.
These habits have kept my cars’ brakes trouble-free.
What Not to Do When Releasing the Parking Brake
I’ve made mistakes, so here’s what to avoid:
- Don’t Force It: Yanking a stuck lever or pedal can break cables.
- Don’t Ignore Warning Lights: A “BRAKE” light means something’s wrong.
- Don’t Skip the Brake Pedal: Pressing it ensures safe release, especially for EPBs.
- Don’t Neglect Maintenance: Unused brakes seize up over time.
I forced a sticky lever on my Dodge once and snapped a cable—costly mistake.
Practical Tips for Smooth Parking Brake Use
Here are some tips to make releasing your parking brake a breeze:
- Read the Manual: Your car’s specific release method might have quirks.
- Practice in a Safe Space: Try engaging and releasing the brake in a parking lot.
- Keep It Lubricated: A quick spray of WD-40 on cables prevents sticking.
- Check the Dash: Always confirm the brake light is off before driving.
These tricks have saved me headaches on many cars.
Get Rolling with Confidence
Knowing how to release parking brake on automatic car is a simple skill that can save you from frustration and keep your car safe. Whether it’s a hand lever, foot pedal, or electronic brake, the process is straightforward once you know your car’s setup.
I’ve been through this with my own vehicles, and with a little care—regular use, maintenance, and quick fixes for sticky brakes—you’ll avoid getting stuck.
Stay on top of your car’s needs, use the parking brake wisely, and enjoy the road without worry. Here’s to smooth starts and safe drives!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my parking brake release?
It could be a stuck cable, rusty mechanism, low brake fluid, or a weak battery (for electronic brakes). Try lubricating the cable or checking fluid; if that doesn’t work, see a mechanic.
Do I need to use the parking brake on an automatic car?
Yes, especially on hills. It prevents strain on the transmission and keeps your car secure. I always use it on my automatic Honda.
What does the “BRAKE” warning light mean?
It could mean the parking brake is engaged, brake fluid is low, or there’s a system issue. Check the brake and fluid first, then get it inspected if it stays on.
Can I drive with the parking brake on?
Not safely—it can overheat the brakes, cause wear, or damage the system. If you drive a short distance by mistake, check for damage immediately.
How do I know if my car has an electronic parking brake?
Look for a button or switch on the center console with a “P” or brake icon. Newer cars, like BMWs or Audis, often have these.
