Why do most new cars have electronic parking brakes?
Recently our Kia Sportage electronic parking brake (epb) was repaired under warranty after it failed. The mechanic at our local Kia dealer said they had quite a few of such failures under warranty. As most drivers seem to feel more secure with a traditional hand brake, why do most larger cars nowadays have a epb, when it seems they come as an expensive advance for manufacturers?
Asked on 11 May 2026 by Maj76
Answered by
David Ross
While electronic parking brakes are more sophisticated than manual versions, in terms of the cost of installation and componentry the electronic version can actually be cheaper, as it is an addition to electronic control of the brakes that already exists with features such as automatic emergency braking. It also frees up a considerable amount of space inside the car, which is why manufacturers tend to fit them as standard. Unfortunately when they do go wrong they are more expensive to repair because they are more sophisticated, a cost which is typically passed on to the owner...
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