Release the Electric Parking Brake (EPB)

Reviewed by the Service Reset editor · Updated October 7, 2026 · How we verify

These instructions apply to the Hyundai i40 Mk1 (VF) 2011-2019.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.

The Hyundai i40 (VF, 2011–2019) uses an electric parking brake (EPB) — the switch on the center console. Pull it up to apply, press it down to release. If it won’t release and you’re stranded, there is an emergency manual release. Changing the rear brake pads, though, needs a diagnostic tool.

Normal Operation

  • Apply: press the brake pedal, then pull the EPB switch up. The parking-brake light comes on.
  • Release: with the ignition on, press the brake pedal and press the EPB switch down.
  • The EPB also releases automatically as you drive off, provided the driver’s seatbelt is fastened and the doors, hood and tailgate are closed.

Emergency Manual Release (If the EPB Won’t Release)

  1. Chock the wheels and make sure the car is on level ground — the car can roll once the brake is off.
  2. At the rear brake caliper, remove the access cap/bolt on the EPB actuator motor.
  3. Insert a hex (Allen) key and turn it clockwise about 180–360° to wind the actuator off.
  4. The parking brake is now released. This is an emergency measure only — have the EPB inspected and reset before relying on it again.

Rear Brake Pads — Tool Required

Renewing the rear pads on the i40 means putting the EPB into “pad change mode,” which requires a Hyundai GDS (or equivalent) diagnostic scanner before and after the job, plus a piston wind-back tool. It is not a tool-free DIY task — use a garage or a mobile technician with an EPB-capable scanner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the rear pads myself?

Only with an EPB-capable diagnostic tool to enter and exit pad-change mode. Without it, the actuator can’t be wound back or re-set correctly.

My EPB is stuck on — what now?

Use the emergency manual release above to free the car, then have the EPB checked. A stuck or faulty EPB shouldn’t be ignored.

Does the parking brake apply itself?

Yes — if Auto Hold is active and you switch the engine off, the EPB applies automatically.

To read any EPB or ABS fault code, use a scanner and look it up on our sister site autodtcs.com.

Independent guide — not affiliated with Hyundai. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.

Related Articles