On most modern Hondas, you engage the parking brake either with a traditional hand lever or with an electronic “P” switch. The exact method depends on your model year and trim. In all cases, secure the vehicle at a stop and confirm the brake is engaged before exiting.
Two common systems used in Honda vehicles
Honda has used both conventional handbrake levers and electronic parking brakes in different models over the years. Checking your owner's manual for model-specific steps is the safest approach, but the following guidelines cover the typical setups you’ll encounter.
Manual handbrake (traditional lever) models
The traditional handbrake is a mechanical lever located between the front seats. Engage it by lifting until you hear a distinct click and the lever locks in place. Release by pressing the release button at the end of the lever and lowering it fully. The steps below assume you’re parking on level ground or taking additional precautions on a slope.
- Come to a complete stop with the regular foot brake.
- Pull the handbrake lever upward to its full engaged position and feel for the click indicating it is firmly set.
- On an automatic, set the transmission to Park; on a manual, leave the car in gear (first gear or reverse) as appropriate.
- Slowly release the foot brake to confirm the car remains stationary with the parking brake engaged.
- When ready to drive again, press the release button on the end of the lever and lower the lever.
Conclusion: The traditional lever provides a direct, mechanical hold. Ensure the lever is fully engaged and that the car remains stationary before leaving the vehicle.
Electronic parking brake (EPB) models
Many Honda models from the mid-2010s onward use an electronic parking brake controlled by a small “P” switch or button on the center console. Engaging the EPB typically requires stopping the car, keeping your foot on the brake, and activating the switch. Some models also feature auto-release or auto-hold functions that affect how the brake disengages when you start moving.
- Stop the vehicle and keep your foot on the brake pedal.
- Engage the EPB by toggling the “P” switch to the engaged position; a dashboard indicator should light up showing the parking brake is on.
- For automatic transmissions, you can shift to Park after the EPB is engaged, or rely on the EPB to hold you in place while you exit; for manual transmissions, leave the car in gear and apply the EPB as an added safety measure.
- When you’re ready to drive again, follow your model’s release procedure—usually either: (a) press the brake pedal and toggle the EPB switch to release, or (b) simply depress the accelerator if the system is set to auto-release.
Conclusion: The electric parking brake offers convenience and often pairing with auto-hold or auto-release features. Always verify the parking brake indicator is off before moving.
Safety reminders and best practices
Regardless of the system, never rely solely on the parking brake on a steep incline. If you’re parking on a hill, turn the wheels toward the curb (or away from the curb if on a downhill) and consider using wheel chocks for extra security. Always ensure the vehicle is fully stopped and the parking brake is engaged before leaving the vehicle.
What to do if the parking brake won’t engage
If you experience difficulty engaging the parking brake, stop in a safe location and consult your owner's manual or contact a Honda dealer. A misadjusted handbrake or a malfunctioning EPB can compromise safety, especially on slopes or when parking for extended periods. Do not ignore warning indicators on the dashboard.
Summary
Honda vehicles may use either a traditional handbrake lever or an electronic parking brake, depending on the model and year. For a handbrake, pull the lever to engage and press the release button to disengage, then shift as appropriate. For an EPB, stop, apply the brake, and toggle the P-button to engage, with release procedures varying by model. Always verify the brake is engaged and follow model-specific guidance in the owner's manual for maximum safety.