Just got a new 2023 toyota rav4 with an electric parking brake that is automated. It automatically applies the electric parking brake when you put it in park. And automatically turns if off when shifting out of park. This feature can be disabled.
I am assuming I should turn it off because its going to wear out and die fast? I dont know how they work. Should I disable it?
The system is already there. I would just leave it on.
The only thing you should be disabling is the Auto stop start engine feature
You should have your parking brake engaged whenever you park. It's not only for your vehicle's safety but also to release stress that the weight of the vehicle puts on the transmission. So, I'd definitely leave it on. The better option is get a vehicle what comes with manual parking brake and you set the brake every time you park. The problem with electronic parking brake is if something messes up, it may not disengage and you're going nowhere.
No.
I dont know how they work
A small electric motor drives a screw that pushes the pads on the rotor.
Should I disable it?
no.
Your parking brake should be applied when your car is parked.
You should not rely on the parking pawl (how your transmission goes into “park”) to prevent your car from rolling away - Its not uncommon to see the parking pawl break.
Turn in your wheels (so that if your car rolls away it steers into a curb and doesn’t go straight and catch speed), while firmly pressing in the brake pedal, engage your parking brake, put the transmission in park and only then turn off the car.
any other method introduces unnecessary risk or wear to the car.
