Service Electronic Parking Brake: 8 Common Causes And Fixes

The electronic parking brake (EPB) offers Jeep drivers a modern alternative to conventional manual handbrakes. It provides a clutter-free design and a seamless and convenient means of engaging brakes at the touch of a button.

Although it has terrific functionalities in terms of parking like the Parksense system, it comes with some challenges. You may see a Service Electronic Parking Brake warning pop up on your screen. Sometimes, your electronic parking brakes may lock up without apparent reason, leaving you with no option but to tow the car.

The Service Electronic Parking Brake warning may be triggered by various issues such as a faulty or dirty EPB switch, a locked EPB, a faulty or damaged EPB motor, wiring issues, outdated software, low system voltage or battery issues, low brake fluid level, and faulty sensors, requiring careful diagnosis and resolution.

If you encounter these issues, you may wonder what the case is. Your brakes are fine. So what is this Service Electronic Parking Brake referring to? How serious is the problem?

In this article, I’ll discuss everything about electronic parking brakes, explore their functions, and discuss the challenges that you may encounter. I’ll also answer questions about servicing and understanding warning messages that may appear on the dashboard. You’ll know how to put an electronic parking brake in service mode, the causes behind service errors, and the process of resetting the electronic parking brake.

Let’s start with the meaning of the Service Electronic Parking Brake Jeep warning.

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What Does It Mean When It Says Service Electronic Parking Brake?

When your Jeep’s dashboard suddenly displays the message Service Electronic Parking Brake, your car tells you something is wrong with the electronic parking brake (EPB) system, and you need to service it.

The EPB is a crucial part of your car. When activated, it applies a tensile force to ensure your Jeep stays put, preventing any unexpected rolling. It’s user-friendly and makes your driving experience smoother. However, like all things, it can sometimes hit a snag.

When you encounter the Service Electronic Parking Brake message, something’s not right with the electronic parking brake. Several factors could cause this error. The good news is that it’s usually not a major crisis like a Parksense problem, but it does require your attention.

Sometimes, your electronic parking brake might refuse to release, leaving you stuck. It can become a significant issue. Hence, if the light persists even after releasing the brake or randomly pops up while you drive, it’s time to consider troubleshooting the problem.

The issue is much more prominent in the Jeep Compass and Jeep Renegade.

Therefore, when your Jeep says Service Electronic Parking Brake, don’t panic. Pay a visit to the dealership to ensure your electronic parking brake keeps your car securely in place.

If you’re comfortable making your hands dirty with oil and grease and have the know-how, then you can try it yourself. But I’ll advise you to go to the dealership if you’re uncomfortable because the electronic parking brake needs special troubleshooting tools, and rules have changed since the handbrakes. Before doing anything to your EPB, you need to put your EPB in service mode. So, how do you do that? Let’s find out.

How Do You Put an Electronic Parking Brake in Service Mode?

To do any electronic parking brake servicing, you must first put it in service mode. To do that –

Get in the Jeep and turn the key ON.
You need to do this through your center console. So, wait for that to come on.
Once your console is ready, go to Settings.
Now, go to Breaks. If it’s not on the first page, scroll down and find it.
If you have a newer Jeep version, you may have to go to Settings >> Safety & Driving Assistance >> Brakes.
Go to Service Mode or Brake Service Mode
Press Yes to put it in service mode.
You can be sure it is in service mode when you hear a whirling sound. Now, the calipers are retracted.
You can turn the key off and service your electronic brakes now.

Now that you’ve put the electronic parking brake in service mode, what’s next? What causes the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning? How can you troubleshoot? Let’s find out.

Jeep Renegade Service Electronic Parking Brake Warning

What Causes the Service Electronic Parking Brake Warning?

1. Faulty or Dirty Electronic Parking Brake Switch

When you encounter the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning light on your dashboard, consider a potential issue that’s more common than you may think—the electronic parking brake (EPB) switch—before worrying about major malfunctions.

If the button for your electronic parking brake doesn’t light up or fails to engage when pressed, the electronic parking brake switch is likely malfunctioning.

Dust, crumbs, or general grime can find their way into the switch, disrupting its functionality. Most people don’t use the electric brake daily, so these little mishaps are more common than total system failures.

The electronic parking brake switch, often found on the car’s console, is vulnerable to dirt, debris, and spilled drinks. These can cause the switch to malfunction and trigger the ominous Service Electronic Parking Brake warning message.

Grab an antibacterial wipe and give the electronic parking brake switch a thorough cleaning. Remove any lurking crumbs delicately with a toothpick. After thoroughly cleaning your switch, try pressing the button again. If the brake works, you’re back in business.

The switch may be beyond repair if it’s broken or damaged heavily. You can buy a replacement switch specific to your Jeep’s make and model and swap it out.

2. Locked Electronic Parking Brake

You get immensely frustrated when you discover your electronic parking brake has mysteriously locked. This glitch immobilizes your vehicle and triggers the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning.

Your immediate concern is the inability to drive your car when faced with a locked electronic parking brake. This is a serious inconvenience. Fortunately, most cars come equipped with an emergency release mechanism designed to manually disengage the brake pads from pressing the discs.

Issues in the brake calipers or wheel cylinders failing to release often cause locked electronic parking brakes. Other causes may include worn or damaged parts, brake system air, or hydraulic system problems.

Accumulated rust or dirt in the brake caliper or cylinder can impede free movement, causing a lock as well. You may need to clean these components to resolve the issue.

Also, leaks in the caliper or cylinder can lead to brake fluid loss, which can reduce pressure.

Get under your Jeep and reach the rear brake calipers to tackle this issue. Use a floor jack for this task. Once under the car, look for bolts that secure the parking brake system onto the caliper. Carefully remove these bolts; the electronic parking brake motor will grant you access to the brake caliper. Proceed with care to avoid causing permanent damage to the electric motors. To release the brake caliper, turn the caliper piston using a socket. This manual release allows you to drive your car to your dealership for inspection.

3. Faulty or Damaged Electronic Parking Brake Motor

Your Service Electronic Parking Brake warning can often be traced to the electronic parking brake (EPB) motor. When this motor malfunctions, it can disrupt the operation of your parking brake.

The electronic parking brake motor plays a pivotal role in engaging the parking brake when you press the button. It is responsible for turning the wheels’ locking mechanism. If this motor fails to function, your parking brake won’t kick in, triggering the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning.

Unusual noises could be a sign that the electronic parking brake actuator or motor is malfunctioning. If these signs persist, address the issue promptly to ensure the proper functioning of your electronic parking brake system.

To check if the electronic parking brake motor is the culprit, pay attention to the noises when you engage the brake. If the usual humming sound is absent, it’s a red flag. To investigate further:

Disconnect the battery for safety.
Locate the electronic parking brake motor near the rear brakes.
Listen for any unusual sounds when engaging the brake.
If the motor remains silent, it might be damaged or malfunctioning.

If you suspect the electronic parking brake motor is the issue, here’s what you need to do:

Disconnect the battery for safety precautions.
Remove the electronic parking brake motor, typically secured by two screws.
Inspect for visible damage or wear.
If worn, consider replacing the motor with a compatible replacement.
If the motor looks fine, clean the connectors thoroughly and reattach.
Reconnect the battery and test the EPB system.

If the electronic parking brake motor is the contributing factor to the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning and you need to replace the motor, here are the general steps to guide you:

Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
Use a jack to lift the car’s rear and secure it with a jack stand.
Remove the wheel. Take off the caliper, usually bolted to the actuator.
Disconnect the actuator’s electrical connectors and wiring harness.
Release the actuator from the caliper by unfastening the screws.
Replace the damaged EPB actuator motor and screw down the new one.
Reconnect the electrical connectors and wiring harness.
Reinstall the caliper.
Put the wheel back. Lower the car
Reconnect the battery terminal.

4. Wiring Issues

There is a network of wires and connectors for seamless operation of your Jeep’s electronic parking brake system. When these elements encounter issues, the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning results.

Various factors can contribute to malfunctions in the electronic parking brake system. These include:

Damage or Corrosion on Electrical Contacts: Dirt and corrosion on electrical contacts can impede proper functioning.
Connector Wear and Tear: The brake system is connected through wires and connectors. Wires and connectors are susceptible to damage over time.
Loose or Broken Connections: Wiring connections, especially in the center console, where most of the wiring is located, can become loose or break, affecting the electrical charge needed for the system.
Corrosion on Parking Brake Cables: Corrosion on parking brake cables can occur due to exposure to water, dirt, and lack of regular vehicle use.

If you suspect wiring issues are behind the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning, consider the following steps:

Inspect Wiring in the Center Console: Carefully examine the wiring in the center console, where most of the electronic parking brake system’s wiring is located. Check for any indications of damage, faulty connections, or frayed wires.
Examine Parking Brake Cables: Check the brake cables for corrosion by removing them from the backplate. Use WD-40 to address corrosion issues.
Address Connector Problems: Inspect the connectors for wear and tear if the issue seems to be the connectors. Replace any faulty connectors.

5. Outdated Software

When the software encounters bugs or glitches, it can trigger malfunctions in the electronic parking brake. Let’s explore the potential issues associated with outdated software and practical solutions to alleviate them.

Software Bugs and Glitches: The electronic parking brake relies heavily on software to execute its functions like any computerized system. Bugs or glitches in the software can inadvertently engage the electronic parking brake, creating safety hazards.
System Malfunctions: An outdated software version may not align with the optimal functioning of the electronic parking brake system. This mismatch can result in unpredictable behaviors, compromising the effectiveness of the parking brake.

So, what can you do?

Update System Software: Reach out to your dealership or a reliable mechanic to inquire about available software updates for your vehicle. Updating the system software can address bugs, glitches, and compatibility issues, ensuring smoother electronic parking brake operations.
Perform a System Reset: A simple system reset often does the trick when a glitch is suspected. To reset the electronic parking brake system, disconnect and reconnect the battery cables for approximately 10 minutes. This allows the system to reset itself, potentially resolving software-related issues.
Routine Software Checks: Incorporate routine checks for software updates into your vehicle maintenance schedule. Stay proactive with software updates to prevent potential malfunctions and ensure your electronic parking brake operates optimally.

6. Battery Issues Or Low System Voltage

The reliable operation of the electronic parking brake (EPB) is linked to the power source. If your Jeep’s battery is dying or struggling to maintain sufficient voltage, the electronic parking brake won’t work. Let’s learn about battery-related issues and explore practical solutions to overcome these issues.

Battery Drain or Insufficient Voltage: The electronic parking brake relies on a stable and sufficient electric charge to function correctly. If your car’s battery is drained or producing minimal voltage, it can hinder the disengagement of the brake, leading to operational issues.
Manual Release System Challenges: When the car battery is dead or provides minimal power, the electronic parking brake may get stuck, making it difficult to move the vehicle. Some cars incorporate a manual release system to override this problem.

What can you do in these situations?

Jump-Start the Car: Attempt to jump-start the car to provide sufficient power to the electronic parking brake. If it works fine after jump-starting, you have a weak battery.
Inspect Battery Terminals: Check the battery terminals for dirt and corrosion. Cleaning the terminals can improve the electrical connection and resolve issues related to low system voltage.
Battery Replacement: If you’re having recurrent problems and the battery is more than 3 years old, replace it. A new battery can provide the necessary voltage for the electronic parking brake to function optimally.
Check for Loose Cables and Fuses: Inspect the battery cables for tightness and see if there are any loose or blown fuses. Tighten loose connections and replace blown fuses to ensure a reliable power supply.
Charge the Battery: Charge the battery using an appropriate charger. Ensure the battery is fully charged.

7. Low Brake Fluid Level

The electronic parking brake (EPB) works to the hydraulic rhythm of the brake fluid. When the fluid level becomes low, it can lead to a malfunction. Let’s discuss the effect of low brake fluid levels and how you can resolve the issues that trigger the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning.

The electronic parking brake system relies on hydraulic pressure to engage and disengage the brakes. When the brake fluid level plunges, it disrupts the hydraulic balance, causing the electronic parking brake system to malfunction.

Vigilance is the key to preventing electronic parking brake malfunctions due to low brake fluid levels. Regularly monitor the brake fluid level.

If the brake fluid level is below the recommended threshold, initiate a top-up to bring it to the suggested level. Utilize brake fluid of the recommended type and quality to maintain the hydraulic integrity of the braking system.

In cases where the brake fluid level appears to decrease frequently or consistently, identify any underlying issues, such as leaks or abnormalities in the brake system, and address them proactively.

8. Faulty Sensor

The electronic parking brake (EPB) relies on sensors to ensure seamless performance. These faulty sensors can lead to an electronic parking brake malfunction. Let’s talk about faulty sensors and the steps needed to address the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning.

In the electronic parking brake system, sensors play a pivotal role in monitoring critical parameters such as brake pedal position, vehicle acceleration, and the engagement of the parking brake. Any malfunction in these sensors can disrupt the performance of the EPB.

Faulty sensors are not unique; they are a common culprit in electronic brake systems. These components, integral to the vehicle’s electronic system, can exhibit issues ranging from incorrect readings to complete failure.

The repercussions of sensor malfunctions extend beyond warning lights on the dashboard. Vehicle performance can suffer. Moisture and stress are among the culprits that can expedite the deterioration of sensors.

When the Service Electronic Parking Brake warning appears, it’s a cue to diagnose the problem accurately. A comprehensive test of sensors and switches is essential. This includes evaluating their performance under various conditions and identifying anomalies triggering the electronic parking brake warning.

A meticulous inspection of the wiring and connections associated with the sensors is crucial. Damaged or compromised wiring can contribute to sensor malfunctions.

A faulty sensor can often be replaced to restore the vehicle’s performance. Timely replacement is critical, as neglecting sensor issues can significantly impact both vehicle performance and safety.

How Do You Reset Your Electronic Parking Brake?

If you want to reset the electronic parking brake (EPB), you need to follow a few steps. The specific steps may vary, but the underlying principles remain similar. Let’s reset the electronic parking brake.

Turn the Ignition On: Park on a level surface. Turn ON the ignition, but don’t press the brake pedal, and shift to PARK.
Activate the EPB: Pull and release the EPB button. Release the EPB button upon hearing a mechanical movement.
Pull, Hold, and Release – First Iteration: Pull the button and hold until you hear a mechanical beep, then release.
Pull, Hold, and Release – Second Iteration: Pull the button again and hold until you hear two mechanical beeps, then release. This usually takes about 3 seconds.

Final Words

The introduction of electronic parking brakes has brought convenience to parking just like the Park Assist System. However, you’ll encounter issues like the Service Electronic Parking Brake inevitably. From battery-related malfunctions to moisture infiltration, there are many reasons. Prompt identification and replacement of faulty components, such as the electronic parking brake switch or actuator motor, are crucial for resolution.

You can avoid these issues by being a vigilant owner. Your proactive maintenance, routine checks, and timely intervention will ensure optimal system performance. Whether you independently address minor problems or seek mechanic assistance, a well-maintained electronic parking brake guarantees a reliable and safe driving experience. You need to understand this contemporary braking technology. I hope I’ve made that much easier for you. Don’t let the electronic parking brake put brakes on your adventures!