The electric parking brake in a Toyota Camry is simple once you know what the switch, indicators, and Brake Hold button are actually doing. In most equipped Camry models, you pull the parking brake switch to set it and press the switch to release it, but automatic mode and Brake Hold have extra conditions that matter for safety.
Quick Answer
To use the Camry electric parking brake, stop the vehicle, press the brake pedal, and pull the EPB switch up to set it. To release it manually, keep your foot on the brake and press the switch down until the parking brake indicator turns off. Use Brake Hold only for temporary stops, not long-term parking.
Key Takeaways
- The electric parking brake, also called EPB, is for keeping the Camry secured when parked.
- Brake Hold is different: it temporarily keeps the brakes applied at stops during normal driving.
- Automatic EPB mode can set the parking brake when you shift into Park and release it when you shift out of Park, if system conditions are met.
- Do not use Brake Hold as a parking brake, especially on slippery roads, steep inclines, or when turning the vehicle off.
- If a warning message stays on, the parking brake will not release, or the indicator flashes, stop using the system and have the Camry inspected by a Toyota dealer.
At a Glance
| Time Required | Less than 1 minute |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Tools Needed | None |
| Cost | $0 for normal operation |
Get to Know the Electric Parking Brake in Your Camry
The electric parking brake replaces the old-style hand lever or foot-operated parking brake with an electronic switch. In a Camry equipped with EPB, the system applies the parking brake by electric motor instead of a cable or pedal.
The Brake Hold feature is related, but it is not the same thing. Brake Hold keeps the service brakes applied after you stop, so you can relax your foot in stop-and-go traffic. When you press the accelerator, the system releases the brake so the vehicle can move again.
Note: Camry features and shift-position rules can vary by model year, market, trim, and equipment package. Use this guide for general help, but confirm the exact wording in your Camry owner’s manual.
| Feature | What It Does | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Parking Brake | Sets or releases the parking brake using an electronic switch. | Parking the vehicle, securing it on a slope, and normal shut-down. |
| Brake Hold | Keeps the service brakes applied after a complete stop. | Traffic lights, drive-through lines, and short stop-and-go driving. |
| Automatic EPB Mode | Sets or releases the parking brake based on shift-lever operation when enabled. | Drivers who want the parking brake to engage automatically when shifting into Park. |
How to Set the Electric Parking Brake
Setting the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) is quick, but it is still a parking-safety step. Stop the vehicle fully before using the switch, and make sure the parking brake indicator confirms the system is set.
Activating the Parking Brake Manually
- Bring the Camry to a complete stop.
- Keep your foot on the brake pedal.
- Shift to Park when parking the vehicle.
- Pull the EPB switch up once.
- Check that the parking brake indicator light turns on.
Pro Tip: On hills, keep your foot on the brake, shift to Park, set the parking brake, confirm the indicator, and then release the brake pedal. This helps the parking brake hold the vehicle instead of leaving all the load on the transmission parking pawl.
Turning Automatic EPB Mode On or Off
Many Camry models with EPB have an automatic mode. When automatic mode is on, the parking brake can set when you shift into Park and release when you shift out of Park, as long as the system conditions are met.
- To turn automatic mode on: Stop the vehicle, then pull and hold the parking brake switch until you hear a buzzer or see the confirmation message on the multi-information display.
- To turn automatic mode off: Stop the vehicle, depress the brake pedal, then press and hold the parking brake switch until you hear a buzzer or see the confirmation message.
- To override it manually: You can still pull or press the EPB switch manually even when automatic mode is enabled.
Note: If the shift lever is moved very quickly or the brake pedal is not pressed firmly enough, automatic EPB operation may not work as expected. In that case, set or release the parking brake manually.
How to Release the Electric Parking Brake
Releasing the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) depends on whether you are using manual release, automatic mode, or accelerator-based release. The safest habit is to keep your foot on the brake, confirm the indicator light turns off, and move slowly.
Manual Release With the EPB Switch
- Turn the vehicle on or place the power switch in the correct mode for your Camry.
- Depress the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the parking brake switch down.
- Confirm the parking brake indicator light turns off.
- Shift into the desired gear and begin driving only after the brake is fully released.
Automatic Release Conditions
When the Camry’s parking brake automatic release function is available, the EPB may release when you shift out of Park or slowly press the accelerator. For this to work, typical conditions include:
- The driver’s door is closed.
- The driver’s seat belt is fastened.
- The shift lever is in a forward driving position or reverse.
- The brake system warning light or malfunction indicator is not illuminated.
- The accelerator is pressed slowly and smoothly.
If the parking brake does not release automatically, use the manual release steps above. If it still will not release, do not force the vehicle to move.
Warning: Do not drive with the parking brake engaged. Driving while the EPB is set can overheat brake components, reduce braking performance, and increase brake wear.
How to Activate the Brake Hold Feature for Easy Driving
Brake Hold is useful in stop-and-go traffic because it holds the brakes after the Camry comes to a complete stop. It is not a substitute for the parking brake.
- Start the vehicle and fasten your seat belt.
- Close the driver’s door.
- Press the brake pedal.
- Press the HOLD button.
- Look for the green Brake Hold standby indicator.
- When you stop completely, look for the operated indicator that shows the system is holding the brake.
- Press the accelerator to release Brake Hold and move forward.
When Brake Hold Will and Won’t Work
Brake Hold only works when its operating conditions are met. On the 2025 Camry Hybrid owner information, Toyota lists the system as keeping the brake applied when the shift lever is in D, S, N, or P with the system on and the brake pedal depressed to stop the vehicle. Some earlier or different Camry models may describe the usable shift positions differently, so check your owner’s manual.
Brake Hold may turn off or refuse to activate if the driver’s door is open, the driver’s seat belt is unfastened, a warning message appears, or the system detects a condition that requires caution.
Warning: Do not use Brake Hold as a parking brake. Toyota warns that Brake Hold is not designed for long-term parking, and turning the vehicle off while Brake Hold is holding the brake may allow the vehicle to move. Shift to Park and set the parking brake when parking.
Warning: Use extra caution on steep inclines and slippery roads. Brake Hold may not hold the vehicle on a steep slope, and it cannot overcome a loss of tire grip on ice, snow, oil, loose gravel, or wet pavement.
Troubleshooting Common Electric Parking Brake Issues
EPB problems are often caused by a missed operating condition, a warning message, a low 12-volt battery, repeated switch operation, or a fault that needs dealer diagnosis. Start with the simple checks first.
| Problem | Likely Cause | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| EPB will not release | Brake pedal not pressed, power switch not in the correct mode, seat belt/door condition not met, or system fault. | Press the brake firmly, close the door, fasten the seat belt, press the EPB switch down, and confirm the indicator turns off. |
| Parking brake indicator flashes | The switch command may not have completed or the system needs another operation. | Operate the switch again while pressing the brake pedal. If it continues, schedule service. |
| “Parking Brake Temporarily Unavailable” message | The system may be protecting itself after repeated operation over a short period. | Stop operating the switch repeatedly and allow the system to return to normal. If the message remains, contact a Toyota dealer. |
| “Parking Brake Unavailable” message | Possible EPB malfunction. | Try the switch several times as the manual directs. If the message does not clear, have the vehicle inspected by Toyota. |
| Brake Hold will not turn on | Driver’s door open, seat belt unfastened, or system condition not met. | Close the door, fasten the seat belt, press the brake pedal, and press HOLD again. |
| EPB or Brake Hold warning stays on | Possible system malfunction, low 12-volt battery, brake system warning, or recall/service issue. | Do not ignore the warning. Check your VIN with Toyota’s recall lookup and the NHTSA recall tool, then schedule service if needed. |
Tips for Safe Use of the Electric Parking Brake
- Use EPB for parking, not Brake Hold. Shift to Park and set the parking brake when leaving the vehicle.
- Confirm the indicator. Do not rely only on the switch feel; check the dashboard light or multi-information display.
- Keep the switch area clear. Objects near the EPB switch can accidentally interfere with parking brake operation.
- Listen for normal motor sound. A brief whirring sound when the EPB operates is usually normal.
- Do not keep tapping the switch. Repeated operation over a short period can temporarily restrict system operation to prevent overheating.
- Take warning messages seriously. If the parking brake cannot be released because of a malfunction, have the vehicle inspected before driving.
- Use your owner’s manual. Toyota’s official owner manuals are the best source for your exact model year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the electric parking brake be used while driving?
Do not use the electric parking brake during normal driving. Toyota’s owner information allows pulling and holding the parking brake switch only if an emergency occurs and it is necessary to operate the parking brake while driving. For everyday driving, the EPB should be used when stopped or parked.
What should I do if the EPB warning light is on?
Stop in a safe place and read the message on the multi-information display. Make sure the brake pedal is pressed, the driver’s door is closed, and the seat belt is fastened. If the warning stays on, the parking brake will not release, or “Parking Brake Unavailable” appears, have the Camry inspected by a Toyota dealer.
Is the EPB system maintenance-free?
No. The switch itself does not need the same adjustment as an old cable-style parking brake, but the brake system, rear brake components, 12-volt battery, warning lights, and software-related service campaigns still need normal inspection and service.
Can I manually release the electric parking brake?
Yes, during normal operation you can manually release it by pressing the brake pedal and pressing the EPB switch down until the parking brake indicator turns off. If the vehicle has a system malfunction, a discharged 12-volt battery, or a warning message that will not clear, do not force the car to move; contact Toyota service or roadside assistance.
Does the EPB work in cold weather?
The EPB is designed for normal vehicle operation, but extreme cold, ice buildup, weak 12-volt battery voltage, or frozen brake components can cause unusual behavior. If the switch does not work normally or a warning message appears, avoid repeated switch operation and have the system checked.
Why does the parking brake turn on after Brake Hold has been active?
On many equipped Camry models, if Brake Hold keeps the brake applied for about 3 minutes, the electric parking brake may set automatically and a buzzer or message may appear. This is a safety-related transition, but it does not mean Brake Hold should be used for parking.
How do I know if my Camry has an electric parking brake?
Look near the center console for a parking brake switch marked with a “P” brake symbol. If your Camry has a foot pedal parking brake or a traditional lever instead, follow the instructions for that system in your owner’s manual.
Conclusion
Using your Camry’s electric parking brake comes down to three habits: stop fully, use the switch correctly, and confirm the indicator light. Brake Hold can make traffic easier, but it is only for temporary stops. When parking, shift to Park and set the EPB. If a warning light, buzzer, or message does not clear, treat it as a safety issue and have the system inspected.
Sources
- Toyota Owners — 2025 Camry Hybrid Parking Brake — EPB manual mode, automatic mode, indicators, automatic release, warnings, and dealer-inspection guidance.
- Toyota Owners — 2025 Camry Hybrid Brake Hold — Brake Hold operation, operating conditions, 3-minute automatic parking-brake behavior, steep-incline and slippery-road warnings.
- Toyota Owners — Manuals and Warranties — official owner manual lookup for model-year-specific instructions.
- Toyota Recall Lookup — VIN-based Toyota, Lexus, and Scion recall lookup.
- NHTSA Recalls — official U.S. vehicle safety recall lookup.
