Parking Brake Release Switch: Description and Operation
Parking BrakeCOMPONENT LOCATION
OVERVIEW
The parking brake is an electrically actuated system that operates drum brakes integrated into the rear brake discs. The parking brake system consists of:
^ A parking brake switch.
^ Left and right drum brakes.
^ Left and right brake cables.
^ An emergency release cable.
^ Two parking brake indicators.
^ A parking brake module.
The parking brake is operated by the parking brake module, which adjusts the tension of the brake cables to apply and release the drum brakes. Operation of the parking brake module is initiated by the parking brake switch.
PARKING BRAKE SWITCH
The parking brake switch is used by the driver to apply and release the parking brake, and is installed in the center console adjacent to the gear shift lever. An electrical connector on the back of the switch provides the interface with the vehicle wiring. A brake symbol on the switch illuminates when the exterior lamps are selected on.
There are 3 states for the parking brake switch:
^ Apply request, when the handle of the parking brake switch is pulled up.
^ Release request, when the handle of the parking brake switch is pushed down.
^ Idle, when the handle of the parking brake switch is in the central or rest position.
Microswitches, incorporated into the parking brake switch, are activated by the handle of the parking brake switch. To determine the operating state of the parking brake switch, the parking brake module monitors the activity of the microswitches.