Auto hold function - forget about applying the parking brake. Is this only available in vehicles with automatic transmission and automatic parking brake?

Auto Hold - an invention that improves driving comfort

This function is an extension of another system that supports the driver, i.e. car assistant. The purpose of the automatic hold system is to hold the vehicle in place when pulling away on a hill. At this point, the electric parking brake is activated and prevents the vehicle from rolling. This is a very practical invention, especially when the driver needs to quickly release the brake and add gas. The same applies to the auto-hold function, which additionally allows this brake to be activated when stationary.

Auto hold function in automatic and manual transmissions

Deactivation of the automatic hold system on vehicles with automatic transmission occurs when the accelerator pedal is depressed. The system recognizes that the driver wants to move off and releases the brake. 

On models with a manual transmission, this process is activated by the clutch pedal. At this point, auto hold is released and the vehicle can accelerate. However, the brake is always on when the device is turned off or the seat belts are not fastened.

Advantages of the automatic parking brake

Admittedly, this solution is very practical for people traveling around the city. Thanks to the auto-hold function, you do not tire your legs by constantly pressing the brake pedal, because it turns on automatically. You also don't have to remember to apply the handbrake when you get out of the car and park it. This system makes it easier to start uphill.

Can the auto hold system be disabled?

This system can be deactivated at any time. It is important that auto-hold is available not only for cars with automatic transmission, but also for cars with manual transmission. Of course, this feature takes a little getting used to, but it is certainly very useful and has a security impact. 

What else do you need to know about autohold?

This system is only available on vehicles equipped with an electromechanical parking brake. However, its presence does not determine the presence of an automatic hold system. Therefore, if you are looking for a car with this option, be sure to carefully study the issue. This way you will know if the vehicle actually has the equipment you are looking for.

Does the towing vehicle have disadvantages?

This solution is not without drawbacks. It's not so much the function itself, but the electromechanical brake. Its failures can lead to permanent immobilization of the car! Therefore, you need to know how to avoid common factors that affect the failure of this element.

How to take care of the auto-hold system in cars with automatic transmission?

Keep the battery charged at all times for the auto-hold system to work. If you are not sure about its capabilities, it is better to replace it with a new one. Why is it so important? In an automatic hold system, it may happen that the battery cannot unlock the terminals. Then the car will be doomed to a forced stop. Moisture accumulating in drives can freeze and cause them to fail. Typical for this solution is also damage to the brake cable tension motor. Replacement can be expensive and can even exceed a thousand zlotys!

Do you want to use the automatic retention system? So keep your car in the best possible condition: monitor the condition of the battery, maintain the brake cables and replace them before they become blocked. Then everything should be fine!