How To Fix Honda Civic Electric Parking Brake Problem

Many Honda Civic owners encounter issues with their electric parking brake systems, leading to frustration and inconvenience. Don’t worry i’ve dealt with this problem a lot of times and know how frustrating it can get, but the solution is simple.

Moving forward, we’ll explore the causes, discuss effective solutions for the Honda Civic Electric Parking Brake problem, and get you back on the road again.

So, let’s get into it!

Honda Civic Electric Parking Brake Problem – Causes & Solutions

1. Battery Issue

The most common cause of the EPB problem is a low or dead battery. When the battery is low, your car’s engine will fail to start. Moreover, you’ll also receive the electric parking brake problem warning as the electronic components fail to receive ample power supply to function. 

Solution:

  • Check the battery for any loose connections or corrosion to ensure a stable power supply.
  • Check the battery voltage with a multimeter. If it is below 10v, you’ll have to recharge or replace the battery to restore proper functionality.

2. Faulty Parking Brake Switch

It is possible that the switch used to activate the electric parking brake has developed a fault. Normally, you can activate or deactivate the EPB by pulling this switch. However, just like any other electronic component, the parking brake switch can fail. The question is, how do you know if it’s the switch that’s faulty?

Solution:

  • Notice if the EPB light on the dashboard stays illuminated, the parking brake does not release properly, or the system makes any unusual sounds.
  • If you suspect a problem with the parking brake switch, it is best to have it examined by a technician. 

3. Malfunctioning Fuses

Fuses can often cause an electric parking brake problem in your car. If a fuse has blown off or the wiring has gone bad, the electric parking brake will malfunction. 

Solution:

  • Remove the fuse cover and see if any fuse is burnt or in a bad condition.
  • If you find a blown fuse, remove it and replace it with a new one.

4. Failed Actuator

The actuator is an electric motor in the caliper that can go bad at any given moment, causing problems in the EPB. When activated, it is responsible for applying and releasing brakes. Being constructed from mediocre-quality plastic, it is bound to fail after a few years of use. 

Common signs of a failed actuator include the parking brake not engaging or disengaging, unusual sounds coming from the rear calipers when the EPB is activated, or visible damage to the actuator mechanism.

Solution:

  • Consult a mechanic to find out if the actuator has failed and have it replaced. 

5. The Electric Parking Brake is Stuck

If the dashboard shows a warning light and your car won’t start, it is likely because the EPB system is stuck. This happens when the brake switch is stuck in an engaged position and needs to be released. 

Solution:

  • Press the release button on the console.
  • If that doesn’t work, look for the release lever of the electric brake near the brake pedal and pull it to deactivate the electric parking brake system. 

How Do You Reset the Electronic Parking Brake On A Honda Civic?

There are two ways to reset the electronic parking brake on a Honda Civic and get rid of the warning light:

Method 1:

  • Turn off your car and open the hood.
  • Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery and then connect it again.
  • Start your vehicle and check if the warning sign has disappeared. 

Method 2:

  • Turn on the ignition and shift the gear into the park without pressing the brake pedal.
  • Pull and release the electric parking brake button.
  • Hold the button until you hear a mechanical sound in the engine, then release it.
  • Pull and hold the button again and release it once you hear two mechanical beeps.
  • The electric parking brake problem should be solved at this point. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why Is My Honda Civic EPB Not Working?

The EPB may not be working for many reasons, such as a low or dead battery, a faulty EPB switch, damaged actuators in the rear calipers, or blown fuses related to the EPB system. We recommend you make a proper diagnosis by checking each component and identifying the specific issue or consult a professional mechanic. 

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