The Subaru Outback, a renowned vehicle for adventure and reliability, boasts an array of advanced features, including an electronic parking brake. While this system enhances convenience and safety, understanding how to disengage it properly is crucial, especially in situations where manual intervention is necessary. This guide will provide a step-by-step breakdown of the process of turning off the parking brake on a 2015 Subaru Outback, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this task seamlessly.
Firstly, it’s essential to ensure that the vehicle is stationary and in park mode. The parking brake lever is typically located on the lower left side of the driver’s footwell. To release the brake, simply depress the brake pedal firmly with your right foot. Simultaneously, pull up on the parking brake lever with your left hand. If the parking brake is successfully disengaged, you should hear a clicking sound and feel the lever move freely. However, if the lever remains locked in place, there may be an underlying issue that requires professional attention.
After disengaging the parking brake, be sure to visually confirm that the brake lights are turned off. This indicates that the parking brake is fully released and the vehicle is ready for motion. Additionally, it’s recommended to check the instrument cluster for any warning lights related to the parking brake system. If any lights are illuminated, it’s advisable to consult your owner’s manual or seek professional assistance to diagnose and resolve the issue promptly. By following these steps and practicing safe driving habits, you can ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your Subaru Outback’s parking brake system.
Disengaging the Manual Parking Brake
1. Insert the Key and Start the Engine
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "on" position without starting the engine.
- Apply pressure to the brake pedal with your left foot.
2. Depress the Parking Brake Release Button or Lever
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For models with a parking brake lever:
- Locate the parking brake lever to the left of the driver’s seat.
- Pull up on the lever firmly while pressing the brake pedal.
- The parking brake should be released with a click.
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For models with a parking brake button:
- Locate the parking brake button on the center console.
- Press the button down while applying pressure to the brake pedal.
- The parking brake indicator light on the dashboard should turn off.
3. Shift the Transmission into Drive
- With the parking brake disengaged, shift the transmission into drive (D).
- Release the brake pedal and proceed with driving.
Note:
If the parking brake warning light remains illuminated after following the steps above, refer to your owner’s manual for additional troubleshooting steps.
Verifying Parking Brake Disengagement
Confirming that the parking brake has been successfully disengaged is essential for safe and efficient vehicle operation. Here are the steps to verify parking brake disengagement:
1. Observe Dashboard Indicator
The dashboard typically displays an illuminated parking brake indicator light when the brake is engaged. Check if the light is turned off or dim after releasing the parking brake lever.
2. Listen for Release Click
In some vehicles, a distinctive click sound can be heard when the parking brake is disengaged. Listen attentively for this sound after releasing the brake.
3. Test Manual Resistance
For vehicles with a manual parking brake lever, try to move the lever back to the engaged position. If the brake is disengaged, you should encounter little to no resistance.
4. Drive Vehicle in Low Gear
This step provides comprehensive verification by simulating a real-world driving scenario. Release the parking brake and drive the vehicle at a low speed (around 5 mph). If the parking brake is still engaged, you will experience a noticeable resistance in the vehicle’s movement, accompanied by a high-pitched scraping sound. In some cases, you may also witness a momentary stalling of the engine. If any of these symptoms occur, immediately stop the vehicle and re-engage the parking brake. Note: Always ensure that the vehicle is on a flat surface and in open space when performing this test for safety reasons.
| Indication | Parking Brake Status |
|---|---|
| Illuminated dashboard indicator | Engaged |
| Dimmed or off dashboard indicator | Disengaged |
| Click sound when releasing lever | Disengaged |
| Little to no resistance when moving lever | Disengaged |
| Vehicle resistance when driving in low gear | Engaged |
How to Turn Off Parking Brake in Subaru Outback 2015
- Step on the brake pedal.
This will unlock the parking brake lever.
- Pull up the parking brake lever.
The lever is located to the left of the driver’s seat.
- Push the button on the end of the parking brake lever.
This will release the parking brake. You should hear a clicking sound.
- Lower the parking brake lever.
The lever should now be in the down position.
- Troubleshooting Parking Brake Malfunctions
If you are having trouble turning off the parking brake, there are a few things you can try:
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Check the brake pedal.
The brake pedal must be depressed all the way to the floor in order to release the parking brake. If the brake pedal is not depressed all the way, the parking brake lever will not be able to move. -
Inspect the parking brake lever and cable.
The parking brake lever and cable should be in good condition and free of any damage. If the lever or cable is damaged, it will need to be replaced. -
Check the brake fluid level.
The brake fluid level should be between the “Min” and “Max” marks on the reservoir. If the brake fluid level is low, it may need to be refilled.
| Warning Signs | Possible Causes |
|---|---|
| The parking brake light is on and the parking brake is not engaged. | – Faulty brake switch -Malfunctioning parking brake actuator |
| The parking brake is engaged but the vehicle can still move. | – Worn or damaged brake pads -Leaking brake fluid -Faulty parking brake cable |
Safety Precautions for Parking Brake Use
The parking brake is an essential safety feature, but it can be dangerous if not used properly. Follow these precautions to ensure safe and effective parking brake use:
1. Always engage the parking brake when parked
This is the most important safety precaution. The parking brake prevents your vehicle from rolling, even if it is in gear.
2. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle with the parking brake engaged
Children and pets can accidentally release the parking brake, which could cause the vehicle to roll away.
3. Do not use the parking brake as a substitute for chocks
Chocks are used to prevent vehicles from rolling on slopes. The parking brake should only be used in addition to chocks, not as a substitute.
4. Be aware of the parking brake’s location and how to release it
In an emergency, you need to be able to release the parking brake quickly and easily.
5. Test the parking brake regularly
To ensure that the parking brake is working properly, test it on a slight slope. The vehicle should not roll back more than a few inches.
6. If the parking brake is not working properly, have it repaired immediately
A faulty parking brake can be dangerous. If you notice any problems with the parking brake, have it repaired by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Brake System Maintenance and Inspection
Checking Brake Fluid Level
Regularly check the brake fluid level. Low fluid levels can indicate leaks or worn brake pads.
Inspecting Brake Pads
Inspect brake pads for wear. Thin pads can reduce braking effectiveness.
Replacing Brake Pads
Brake pads should be replaced when they become too thin. Replace pads in pairs, not individually.
Flushing Brake Fluid
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce its effectiveness. Flush the brake fluid every few years.
Inspecting Brake Lines
Brake lines should be inspected for leaks, cracks, and corrosion. Replace any damaged lines immediately.
Checking Parking Brake
Test the parking brake regularly. It should hold the vehicle securely on a slope.
Troubleshooting Brake System Issues
If you experience any brake system issues, such as spongy pedals or grinding noises, have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic promptly.
| Brake System Inspection | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Check brake fluid level | Monthly |
| Inspect brake pads | Every 20,000 miles |
| Inspect brake lines | Every 50,000 miles |
| Flush brake fluid | Every 3 years |
| Check parking brake | Annually |
Understanding the Parking Brake Indicator Light
The parking brake indicator light is a small, usually red or yellow light on your dashboard that illuminates when the parking brake is engaged. It typically has the symbol of a “P” inside a circle.
Visual Cues
The light will turn on when you pull up on the parking brake lever or press the parking brake button. It will stay lit as long as the parking brake is engaged.
When releasing the parking brake, the light will turn off. If it does not, there may be an issue with the parking brake system, and you should consult a mechanic.
Audio Cues
Some vehicles may also emit an audible sound when the parking brake is engaged. This can be a chime, a beep, or a voice announcement.
Location
The location of the parking brake indicator light varies depending on the vehicle model. It is typically found on the instrument cluster or in the center console.
Additional Information
If you are unsure whether the parking brake is engaged, check the parking brake lever or pedal. The lever should be pulled up or the pedal should be depressed.
Hill-Start Assist and Parking Brake Interaction
Hill-Start Assist is a feature that helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on a hill. It works by automatically applying the brakes for a short period of time after the driver releases the brake pedal.
The parking brake is a mechanical device that is used to keep the vehicle from moving when it is parked. It is typically engaged by pulling a lever or pressing a button.
How Hill-Start Assist and the Parking Brake Interact
Hill-Start Assist and the parking brake work together to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on a hill. When Hill-Start Assist is engaged, the parking brake will be automatically applied when the vehicle comes to a stop on a hill. When the driver releases the brake pedal, Hill-Start Assist will hold the brakes for a short period of time to give the driver time to accelerate.
If the driver does not accelerate within a certain amount of time, the parking brake will be released and the vehicle will roll backward. The amount of time that Hill-Start Assist holds the brakes depends on the slope of the hill.
Disabling Hill-Start Assist
Hill-Start Assist can be disabled by pressing the Hill-Start Assist button on the dashboard. The button is typically located near the gear selector.
When Hill-Start Assist is disabled, the parking brake will not be automatically applied when the vehicle comes to a stop on a hill. The driver will need to manually apply the parking brake if they want to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward.
| Hill-Start Assist | Parking Brake | |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on a hill | Keeps the vehicle from moving when it is parked |
| Operation | Automatically applies the brakes for a short period of time after the driver releases the brake pedal. | Manually applied by pulling a lever or pressing a button. |
| Interaction | Works together with the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on a hill. | Can be disabled by pressing the Hill-Start Assist button on the dashboard. |
How to Turn Off Parking Brake on a Subaru Outback 2015
The Subaru Outback 2015’s parking brake is a crucial safety feature that helps keep the vehicle stationary when parked. However, knowing how to disengage it effectively is equally important, especially when ready to drive.
Follow these steps to turn off the parking brake in your Subaru Outback 2015:
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Ensure the vehicle is in park (P).
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Locate the parking brake pedal on the left side of the footwell.
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Use your foot to depress the pedal fully.
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The parking brake will disengage, and the brake warning light on the instrument cluster will turn off.
It is essential to remember that the parking brake should only be engaged when the vehicle is not in motion. Attempting to drive with the parking brake engaged can damage the transmission and other vehicle components.
People Also Ask
How do I know if the parking brake is on?
When the parking brake is engaged, the brake warning light on the instrument cluster will be illuminated, and the parking brake lever will be raised. Additionally, you may feel resistance when attempting to shift the vehicle out of park (P).
What happens if I drive with the parking brake on?
Driving with the parking brake engaged can cause severe damage to the transmission and other vehicle components. It is essential to disengage the parking brake before driving.
How do I release the parking brake if it won’t budge?
If the parking brake pedal is stuck and won’t depress, it may be due to a mechanical issue. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or seek assistance from a qualified mechanic to release the parking brake safely.
