How do I activate emergency braking with the electric parking brake?

Simply press and hold the electric parking brake button while driving. The vehicle's electronics will then recognize an emergency situation and initiate controlled braking.

Can a passenger activate this function?

Yes, in situations where the driver can no longer control the vehicle, a passenger can press and hold the electric parking brake button to initiate a safe stop.

What happens if the battery is drained?

Since the system operates on a 12-volt electrical supply, a completely drained battery can prevent the parking brake from releasing and the vehicle from moving without external assistance.

Why does the automatic release of the parking brake sometimes not activate?

The automatic release function only works under certain conditions, such as closed doors, a fastened seatbelt, and a gear engaged. If any of these conditions are not met, the system won't activate, which doesn't necessarily indicate a malfunction.

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The Hidden Button in Your Car That Could Save Your Life

L.J. · Prije 3h | 3 min

While some share dangerous burnout compilation videos, experts highlight a crucial function of the electric parking brake that activates while driving.

Summary

The electric parking brake can be used for controlled braking in emergency situations while driving.
This function is crucial if the driver experiences a medical emergency, and it can also be activated by a passenger.
The system operates on a 12-volt power supply, and a drained battery can prevent its release.
Unlike the useful safety feature, video compilations show how dangerous deliberately causing skids can be.

As the internet is flooded with compilations of failed "burnout" attempts-where drivers deliberately spin their wheels-few consider the system in their own car designed for the opposite purpose: to save lives in critical situations. This refers to the electric parking brake function that many drivers don't even know exists.

Emergency Braking at the Touch of a Button

Most drivers use the electric parking brake only when parking. However, many modern cars are equipped with a system that allows controlled braking while driving. Simply press and hold the button, and the vehicle's electronics recognize an emergency situation.

Instead of locking the rear wheels abruptly, the car uses the main braking system, with ABS and ESP assisting the process. The goal is to safely slow the vehicle and reduce the risk of skidding. In some models, all four turn signals automatically activate to warn other road users.

A Lifesaver for Driver and Passenger

This function proves especially valuable if the driver experiences a medical emergency or can no longer control the vehicle for any reason. In such moments, a passenger can reach for the electric parking brake button and initiate a controlled stop.

Experts, however, warn against testing this function out of curiosity. Each manufacturer has its own way of operating, and instructions are found in the vehicle's manual.

Limitations and Service Specifics

The electric parking brake operates on the 12-volt electrical system, meaning a completely drained battery can prevent it from releasing. In such cases, without external power or a jump-start, the car often cannot move.

Another difference from the traditional handbrake concerns maintenance. Replacing rear brake pads or discs on many models requires engaging a special service mode, which can lead to higher repair costs.

Automatic Release and Conditions

Most new cars also offer automatic release of the parking brake when pulling away. However, this function only activates under certain conditions-closed doors, fastened seatbelt, and a gear engaged. Therefore, its absence doesn't necessarily indicate a malfunction.

The Dangerous Side of Burning Rubber

At the other end of the driving spectrum are those who deliberately perform skids, known as "burnouts." How extremely dangerous this is, even under controlled conditions, is best shown by a video compilation published on August 4, 2026, by Davor Kindy on the Automania portal. The footage clearly demonstrates that performing such stunts puts not only your tires at risk but also your car and your life.