Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Electronic parking brake

Fig. 141 In lower part of centre console: button for the electronic parking brake

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

The electronic parking brake replaces the handbrake.

Switching on the electronic parking brake

The electronic parking brake can be switched on at any time when the vehicle is stationary. Even when the ignition is switched off, always switch on the electronic parking brake when leaving or parking the vehicle.

• Pull and hold the  button  .

• The electronic parking brake is switched on when the indicator lamp in the button   (arrow) and the red indicator lamp in the instrument cluster display are lit up   .

• Release the button.

Switching off the electronic parking brake

• Switch on the ignition.

• Press the     button. At the same time depress the brake pedal with some force or depress the accelerator pedal slightly when the engine is running.

• The indicator lamp in the button   (arrow) and the red indicator lamp in the instrument cluster will go out.

Automatic switch-off for the electronic parking brake when driving off

The electronic parking brake switches off automatically when the vehicle pulls away, provided that the driver door is closed and the driver seat belt has been fastened. If the vehicle has a manual gearbox, you must also depress the clutch fully before pulling off so that the system detects that you want to switch off the parking brake.

You can prevent the electronic parking brake from switching off automatically by pulling and holding the button   while pulling away.

Automatic switch-on of the electronic parking brake if not activated properly when the driver leaves the vehicle

In vehicles with an automatic gearbox the electronic parking brake switches itself on when leaving the vehicle in the following circumstances:

• When the vehicle is in gear positions D, S or R, or if the selector lever is in the Tiptronic position

• When the ignition is switched on

• When the vehicle is stationary

• If the driver door is open.

Emergency braking function

The emergency braking function should only be used in those situations where the vehicle cannot be stopped using the foot brake  !

• Pull and hold the button   to brake the vehicle sharply. An acoustic signal can be heard at the same time.

• To stop the braking procedure, release the button or depress the accelerator pedal.

WARNING

The incorrect use of the electronic parking brake can cause accidents and serious injuries.

• The electronic parking brake should never be used to brake the vehicle, except in emergencies. The braking distance is considerably longer as only the rear wheels are braked. Always use the foot brake.

• Never activate the accelerator from the engine compartment if a position or gear has been selected and the engine is running. The vehicle could move, even if the electronic parking brake is applied.

NOTICE

To avoid unintentional movement when parking the vehicle, first switch on the electronic parking brake and then remove your foot from the brake pedal.

In vehicles with a manual gearbox: when the clutch pedal is released and the accelerator pedal depressed at the same time, the electronic parking brake will be released automatically.

If the vehicle battery is flat it will not be possible to release the electronic parking brake. Use jump leads   .

Some noises may be heard when the electronic parking brake is switched on or off.

If the electronic parking brake has not been used for a long period, the system will carry out occasional automatic and acoustic checks when the vehicle is parked.

Questions & answers

Electronic parking brake — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

How do I apply the Golf Mk7 electronic parking brake?

Pull the button in the lower centre console upward. A lamp in the instrument cluster confirms the brake is engaged. The car must be stationary.

How do I release the Golf Mk7 electronic parking brake?

Press the brake pedal, then push the parking brake button down. On some models, simply pressing the accelerator with the button down releases it automatically.

Does the Golf Mk7 electronic parking brake engage automatically?

Yes. When you switch off the engine with Auto Hold active, the electronic parking brake applies itself automatically. It also engages if you open the driver door with the selector in D or N (DSG).

Can I use the Golf Mk7 electronic parking brake as an emergency brake?

Yes. Pulling and holding the button while driving applies the rear brakes progressively. The car decelerates and ABS remains active. Release the button to stop braking.