Did you experience an Audi parking brake malfunction?
Audi is famous for producing high-end, dependable vehicles that are enjoyable to drive. Audi vehicles are renowned for their luxury and power. They are also known for their cutting-edge technologies and fashionable appearance.
Audi is one of the first automakers to replace traditional manual handbrakes with Electronic Parking Brakes (EPB) [1].
This mechanism is intended to stop the automobile from rolling away when parked on an inclined surface, or any surface.
However, parking brake failure in Audi vehicles has been a source of complaints from several drivers. The Parking Brake failure alert comes on the dashboard, which indicates that there is a problem with the parking brake system.
A car might easily slide down a hill and cause an accident if the parking brake is not functioning properly. The vehicle can still roll even if it is parked on flat ground and it is not properly secured. A parking brake provides additional security when parking.
The parking brake might malfunction for several reasons, all of which need to be addressed. People frequently do not recognize the symptoms of a failing parking brake. If you have ever experienced this problem, then read on to find out how to solve the issue.
Most Common Causes of Audi Parking Brake Malfunction
- Damaged Brake Calipers
Audi’s brake calipers [2] aid in stopping the vehicle when you depress the brake pedal. The parking brake failure alert may be displayed if the calipers are damaged in any way. The rear brakes are activated by brake actuator motors [3].
These actuators are attached directly to the rear brake calipers and have a single-speed reversible motor within.
Even with the right maintenance, these motors might become stuck or sustain damage. The brake might then fail to engage or disengage. The electronic parking brake system and the rear handbrake calipers work hand in hand. The dashboard will display a warning if there is an issue with one of these.
- Faulty Electronic Parking Brake Button
This is the most frequent cause of electronic parking brake malfunction. It’s uncommon for the electronic brake to malfunction because most people don’t use them all that frequently. The button itself is probably the issue if it doesn’t illuminate and the emergency brake doesn’t engage when you touch it [4].
The button might become stuck and malfunction if dirt or other materials get inside it. If you spill drinks on the console and the liquid seeps into the button, the same thing happens.
Sometimes cleaning the button will restore its functionality. In severe cases, you might have to consider installing a replacement.
- Faulty Cables
A network of cables and connectors links the parking brake button to the brake system of the Audi. Wires can deteriorate and connectors can fail, just like any electrical connection. The connectors can also be affected by dirt and debris.
The cables may become corroded and fail. This is especially prevalent in regions where a lot of salt is applied to the roadways during the winter [5].
Occasionally, rodents will chew on the wires and damage them. Your car’s electronics may experience a multitude of issues, including failure of the electronic parking brake, as a result of a damaged wire.
Most of the wiring is located in the center console, which makes inspection simple. However, if you’re not sure of what you’re doing, you should always exercise caution while working with electrical systems.
- Low/Faulty Battery
Power is required to operate the electronic parking brake. You might not be able to release the brake if the car battery dies or is only providing a little amount of voltage. People who need to jumpstart their car frequently run into this problem. It becomes hard to propel the automobile at all when the brake is jammed.
The battery of your Audi may fail or lose charge for a variety of reasons [6].
Common reasons for a dead battery include keeping your interior or headlights on, being exposed to extreme temperatures, corrosion, or simply having your car parked for an extended period.
It is recommended to change your battery after 3-5 years. It is also wise to follow the proper maintenance schedule for your battery.
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- Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor
The wheel speed sensor [7], sometimes referred to as an ABS sensor or an ABS brake sensor, is an essential component of your braking system. The ABS receives information from the speed sensor and tone wheel about the speed of your vehicle’s wheels.
The Audi’s ECU can detect when the parking brake system is experiencing issues by keeping an eye on the wheel speed sensors. The warning light will turn on if there are any problems with the sensors.
Wheel speed sensors are prone to wear and tear, much like every other component of the braking system. They frequently require replacement because they might be damaged by dust, dirt, etc.
The quickest approach to determining if your Audi’s parking brake malfunction message is related to a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor is to see if the ESP light [8] also illuminates.
- The system is not Properly Reset or Programmed
You need to reset the system after replacing the electronic brake pads. The calipers can only be reset with a suitable scanner. If you don’t do this, it could be difficult to apply or release the parking brake. On the dashboard, there may also be warning lights.
How to Fix Parking Brake Failure on Audi
There are a few DIY fixes you can try if you’re having issues with the electronic parking brake. We’ll go through some of the fundamental solutions. If you’re not a technician, or you’re not sure of what you’re doing, we always advise having the car serviced by a mechanic.
- Resetting
Follow the steps below to reset the parking brake:
- Turn off the engine.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Locate the parking brake lever between the front seats.
- Pull up the lever as high as it will go then release it.
- Repeat this procedure several times until you hear a clicking sound. This indicates that the brake has been reset.
- Check the brake’s functionality by testing it.
- Use a Compatible Scanner to Read Codes
Your Audi has an OBD-II port that is typically found behind the steering wheel close to the driver’s side door. Any fault codes set in the PC can be read using a compatible scan tool. You might be able to interpret a brake-related code and resolve the issue if one has been set. [9]
- Disconnect and Reconnect the Battery
This is the first step to take if your parking brake isn’t working properly. By doing this, all of the car’s electronics, including the parking brake, will be reset.
Related: Drive System Malfunction Audi
Conclusion
Audi is fitted with electronic parking brakes that streamline and simplify its design. Despite being a great advancement, the electronic parking brake has a lot of issues that drivers have to deal with.
However, a parking brake malfunction warning is not the end of the world. You can still drive with a parking brake malfunction notice. Your car’s performance won’t be impacted by this in any way.
The only possible outcome is that the Parking brake won’t function properly. The alert will also keep appearing each time you start your car. It’s therefore advisable to get your brake fixed as soon as possible if it isn’t functioning properly.
You ought to be able to understand the system on your own if you have some fundamental mechanical knowledge. Otherwise, you need to hire a mechanic to examine it and make a rapid fix.
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