Electronic handbrake how does it work

Early systems were a variation on the old manual handbrake and used a small electric motor to pull the cables attached to the rear brake shoes or brake pads. Current versions are more sophisticated and use a pair of small, computer-controlled electric motors to operate the brakes. Most systems are operated by the driver flicking a switch to apply the handbrake, but further developments to the system allow some cars to sense when the vehicle is stationary and apply the brakes automatically.

This is usually called 'Auto-hold', and may have a dedicated button to activate it so the feature can be switched on or off. The switch will often have a light on it to indicate it's been activated, or you may hear a slight whirring at the back of the car as the motors work. Either way, the handbrake warning light should illuminate on the dashboard, telling you the car is secure. This typically glows red when the handbrake is fully engaged, but could also illuminate green to indicate the handbrake is automatically holding the car in position, such as in traffic or on a hill start.

When you want to drive away you press the footbrake while flicking the switch to release the parking brake, or simply pull away and the brakes are released automatically in cars with a newer system. The earliest versions of electric handbrakes have already been outdated by technological advances, so it's worth bearing in mind that some electric systems might have a small delay of up to a couple of seconds to fully engage the brakes after the switch is pressed.

This is an added feature on some electronic parking brakes. It retains the same braking pressure but if the system detects the car is rolling backwards, it applies additional force to secure it. This is especially useful in a hill start situation. To move off, you simply press the accelerator if your car is an automatic or, if it is a manual, release the clutch. The brakes are released automatically.

However, it can be irritating when you're manoeuvring into a parking position. You'll have your car sold in no time and the cash to show for it. Latest News. The best small electric cars. Resources AutoTrader Alternative Who will buy my car? Sign in. Jamjar Home blog What is an electronic handbrake and how do they work? Find out what they are and how they work here. What are electronic handbrakes like to live with? How does an electronic handbrake work? Up or down Which one is it?

You can't work on them yourself KB. The hill-hold function 10 MB. Sort by Best Sort by Latest. Show Comments. Sign in to your Car Throttle account Before you sign in Please confirm you agree to the use of tracking cookies as outlined in the Cookies Policy.

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