If you own a modern Honda Civic, you’ve probably noticed the “Brake Hold” button on your center console. You might be wondering, can you drive with brake hold on Honda Civic? The simple answer is yes, absolutely. In fact, that’s its primary purpose.
Brake Hold is a clever driver-assistance feature designed to make stop-and-go traffic and long waits at red lights much less tiring. It’s not a parking brake or a fault; it’s a convenience tool you can use every day.
This guide will explain exactly how Brake Hold works, when to use it, and clear up any common misconceptions so you can drive with confidence.
Can You Drive With Brake Hold On Honda Civic?
Yes, you can and should drive with Brake Hold activated. It is meant to be turned on at the beginning of your drive and left on. The system only engages when you come to a complete stop. While you are moving, it does nothing. It only holds the brakes for you after you’ve stopped to prevent the car from rolling.
What Exactly Is the Brake Hold Feature?
Brake Hold is an automated system that maintains brake pressure after you’ve come to a full stop. When activated, you can take your foot off the brake pedal, and the car will remain stationary without rolling forward or backward.
It’s perfect for:
- Heavy traffic jams
- Long traffic light waits
- Drive-thru lines
- Toll booths
- Any situation where you’re stopped on an incline
The system automatically releases the brakes the moment you press the accelerator pedal, providing a smooth and seamless transition back to driving.
How to Activate and Use Brake Hold
Using Brake Hold is straightforward. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
- Start your Honda Civic’s engine.
- Fasten your seatbelt. The system often requires this for safety.
- Press the “Brake Hold” button, located near the electronic parking brake switch. An indicator light on the button will illuminate (usually white or amber) to show it’s armed.
- Drive normally. The system is now active but waiting.
- When you come to a stop, press the brake pedal firmly until the vehicle is completely stationary. A second indicator will appear in your instrument cluster (often a green “BRAKE HOLD” message). This tells you the system is now holding the brakes.
- You can safely remove your foot from the brake pedal. The car will not move.
- To drive away, simply press the accelerator pedal. The “BRAKE HOLD” message will disappear, and the car will move off smoothly.
Important Safety Notes on Operation
Always ensure the green “BRAKE HOLD” message is visible before taking your foot off the brake. If you only see the button light, the system is armed but not actively holding.
The system may automatically release and apply the parking brake if it detects you’ve been stopped for an extended period or if you open the driver’s door while Brake Hold is active. A chime will usually sound.
Remember, Brake Hold is not a substitute for the parking brake when exiting the vehicle. Always shift into Park and apply the parking brake when leaving your Civic.
Common Myths and Misunderstandings
Let’s clear up some frequent points of confusion.
Myth 1: Brake Hold is the Same as the Parking Brake
This is false. The parking brake (or emergency brake) is a mechanical or electronic system that locks the rear wheels. Brake Hold uses the regular hydraulic brake system to hold pressure. It automatically disengages with the accelerator and is not designed for long-term parking.
Myth 2: It Wears Out Your Brakes Faster
Not true. Brake Hold uses the existing brake system; it doesn’t apply additional force or constant friction. The wear from being held stationary for a minute is negligible compared to the wear from normal braking maneuvers. In fact, it might reduce wear from “creeping” in traffic.
Myth 3: It’s Dangerous on Hills
On the contrary, it’s excellent for hills. It prevents rollback, giving you time to move your foot from the brake to the accelerator without the car rolling. This provides a much smoother and less stressful start on steep inclines.
When Should You Turn Brake Hold Off?
While you can leave it on all the time, there are a few situations where you might want to deactivate it:
- Precision Maneuvering: When performing very slow, precise movements like parking in a tight spot or using a car wash conveyor, the system’s release might feel to abrupt. Turning it off gives you finer control with the brake pedal.
- Driver Preference: Some drivers simply prefer the traditional method and find the feature disconcerting. That’s perfectly okay.
- Towing: If you are towing your Civic or having it towed, refer to your manual. It’s generally recommended to turn off all driver-assist systems.
To turn it off, just press the “Brake Hold” button again. The indicator light on the button will turn off.
Troubleshooting: What If Brake Hold Isn’t Working?
Sometimes the system may not engage. Here’s what to check:
- Seatbelt: Are you buckled up? Most models require it.
- Door Closure: Is the driver’s door fully closed?
- System Arm: Did you press the Brake Hold button to arm it? Look for the button light.
- Complete Stop: Did you press the brake pedal firmly until the car was fully stopped? A gentle stop might not trigger it.
- Fault Detection: If the system detects a fault (like low brake fluid), it may disable itself. A warning light on the dash (often the main brake system light) would typically appear.
If the system seems faulty or you see persistent warning lights, it’s best to have your Honda dealer inspect the vehicle. There could be a sensor issue or other problem that needs professional attention.
Comparing Brake Hold to Other Honda Features
It’s easy to mix up the various driver aids. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Auto Idle Stop: This turns the engine off at stops to save fuel. Brake Hold works with it seamlessly. When Auto Idle Stop turns the engine off, Brake Hold keeps the brakes applied. Pressing the accelerator restarts the engine and releases the brakes in one motion.
- Hill Start Assist: This is similar but different. Hill Start Assist is automatic and temporary (usually holding for about 2 seconds) on detected inclines. Brake Hold is manual to activate but then holds indefinitely until you press the accelerator, and works on any terrain, flat or sloped.
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB): This is for securing the vehicle when parked. You manually apply it with a switch, and it usually requires you to manually release it (or it auto-releases when shifting from Park with seatbelt on).
Expert Tips for Using Brake Hold Effectively
To get the most out of this feature, keep these tips in mind:
- Use it in daily commuting. It’s a game-changer for reducing leg fatigue.
- Practice in an empty parking lot. Get used to the feel of the system engaging and releasing so it becomes second nature.
- Always look for the green dashboard confirmation before releasing the brake pedal.
- Remember it’s still your responsibility to monitor the vehicle. While rare, no system is infallible.
- Keep your foot near the accelerator when stopped. This ensures a quick response when the light turns green or traffic moves.
FAQs About Honda Civic Brake Hold
Does Brake Hold use extra battery power?
It uses a minimal amount of power to run the control module, but it does not constantly engage an electric motor. The holding force is maintained by sealed brake pressure, not battery power.
Can I use Brake Hold in the rain or snow?
Yes, it is safe to use in all weather conditions. It functions the same way. However, always adapt your driving style for reduced traction, regardless of driver aids.
What happens if I press the brake pedal while Brake Hold is active?
Nothing changes. The system continues to hold. Pressing the accelerator is the only way to release it and drive away.
Will Brake Hold stop my car in an emergency?
No. Brake Hold only activates after you have brought the car to a complete stop using the brake pedal. It is not a collision avoidance or automatic braking system.
Why does my Brake Hold light sometimes flash?
A flashing indicator usually signifies a system fault or that the conditions aren’t met (like an unbuckled seatbelt). Check your owner’s manual for the specific flashing pattern meaning for your model year.
Is it bad to drive with brake hold on all the time?
Not at all. Many drivers leave it on for every drive. It has no negative effect on the vehicle’s operation during normal driving.
Final Thoughts on Brake Hold
The Brake Hold feature on your Honda Civic is a smart, practical tool designed for comfort and convenience. It’s perfectly safe to drive with it on, and it can make your daily commute significantly less stressful.
By understanding how it works and when to use it, you can take full advantage of this modern engineering. It’s one of those features that, once you get used to it, you’ll wonder how you ever drove without it. So go ahead, press that button on your next drive and give your foot a rest in traffic.
Always consult your specific Honda Civic owner’s manual for the most accurate and detailed information regarding the Brake Hold system and all vehicle operations. Manuals can vary slightly between model years and trims, so it’s the best source of truth for your particular car.