6 Types of Audi Parking Brake Malfunctions

Audi vehicles are famous for their luxury and presence. The elegant designs of the Audi appeal to people who love luxury and style. However, Audi cars are not known for their stable, long-term performance. If their issues are not corrected on time, the owner could end up paying a high repair bill. One of the most common problems is the parking brake malfunctioning.

The purpose of the Audi parking brake

There are two types of parking brakes: electronic brakes and manual brakes. Manual brakes are used in manual cars, and electronic brakes are used in automatic cars like the Audi. Parking brakes keep the vehicles stationary on inclines and prevent them from rolling down hilly areas. 

If the parking brakes are not working, the car can roll back and cause an accident. The parking brake acts as extra security for a driver’s peace of mind.

On the contrary, locate the EPB button on the car and pull it up while pressing down on the brake paddle. You will hear a mechanical sound, which means you have triggered the brake. The brake light will appear on the dashboard. The parking brake can also be an emergency brake.

The electric parking brake, or EPB, ensures that the car does not move inadvertently. When this system is activated, it emits tensile power, so the vehicle does not move unintentionally.

The electric parking brake system has many helpful features that make it convenient. However, there are times when only a specialized repair shop can fix the car’s problems.

In addition, we cover what to do in the event of an issue with the electric parking brake. Moreover, we explain how to disengage the electric parking brake if it is locked. This blog has all the information you’ll need to know what to do in the event of an EPB malfunction.

Types of parking brake malfunction

1. Fault in Parking Sensors

If the parking sensors are not working, then they are not connecting with the parking brake when the driver engages the parking button. The parking brake may not release when the driver presses down on the pedal. Even if parking brake lights turn on, the car can still roll away or get stuck in parking mode. 

2. Fault in ECU Parking brake

If Audi’s electronic control unit (ECU) was the source of the parking brake error, you have successfully diagnosed the problem. Calibrating the ECU by yourself is easy to do. To calibrate the ECU, retrieve a calibration file from the Audi website and apply it following the on-screen instructions.

3. Shortage of Brake fluid

The most common Audi parking brake malfunction is a shortage of brake fluid. If your parking brake is not working correctly, you first need to check the brake fluid in the reservoir. If the level is low, then add more. 

4. Malfunction due to Contaminated Brake fluid 

If adding fluid did not fix the issue, you must check the fluid quality. Sometimes, due to irregular brake fluid checks, dirt and other debris contaminate the fluid. You must replace dirty brake fluid. 

5. Worn Brake Pads 

So, the parking brakes are not working, even though you have double-checked the fluid level and quality. It may be time to get new pads. If your parking brake pads are too worn, your brakes will not work, and using them will damage them even more. Replace the used brake pads with new ones.

6. Malfunction due to defective Parking Brake Cable 

If your Audi parking brake is still not working correctly after performing the previous steps, the issue may be the parking brake cable. When in use, the parking brake cable puts pressure on brake pads.

The parking brake may be damaged from overuse.

What to do if the parking brake got malfunctions

If your vehicle’s electronic parking brake stops working or needs service, the following advice may prove very helpful:

Ensure everything is spotless by checking and cleaning its parts

Constantly checking the condition of the electric parking brake’s parts is a must. For instance, brake pads are crucial for stopping our vehicles since they apply the force needed to slow them down.

Make sure the voltage is correct

The braking system must be provided with the appropriate power for the vehicle to stop when necessary. Over or under voltage could indicate a problem with the battery or the Electronic Control Unit (ECU). For this reason, the driver should examine voltage with the required diagnostic instruments.

Verify the wires

Earlier, we established how critical it is to inspect the EPB parts for damage. Brake cables usually wear out after some time and some use.

When will we know, if at all, that the wires may damage? If the batteries and plugs are fine and we still have no power, the problem may lie with the cables. Voltage makes sure there aren’t any bare spots or cuts on them.

Now that you know some of the basics for keeping your electric parking brake in good working order, you must remember to take your vehicle in for regular brake inspections.

Maintenance for parking brake malfuntion

Pushing a button activates the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), which sends an electrical signal to a mechanism, locking the brakes. When the EPB detects a problem, it lights up a warning lamp to tell you something is wrong. In the event of a malfunction in the braking system, It’s better to call trained specialists and technicians to assess the situation and, if required, make repairs.

Furthermore, Regular maintenance on our vehicle should include inspecting the brake pads, the quality of the cables that control the electric handbrake, and any signs of brake fluid leakage.

Contrary, it’s likely that the electric handbrake won’t operate because it isn’t getting enough power to slow down the vehicle. It is due to the bad condition of the battery. Consequently, you should ensure that all of the car’s electronic components are functioning completely.

Conclusion

Audi parking brake malfunction is not the manufacturing fault, but it may arise due to other factors. Parking brakes are essential in case of emergencies and when parking on inclines. The parking brake system needs continual maintenance check-ups. If brakes are not working correctly, immediately seek professional help or go to an Audi service center. 

    by
  • Eric Williams

    I'm the founder of Daily Car Tips. I wrote articles in the automotive industry for more than 10 years, published in USA and Europe. I love sharing my knowledge and insights with fellow enthusiasts. Join me on this journey as we explore the exciting world of cars together!

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