Parking brake button

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION Parking brake button
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 45 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, 2016 BMW 535i xDrive, and 2016 BMW 535i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The parking brake button is located in the center console behind the gear lever switch (GWS). With the engine running or vehicle moving: The parking brake has a hydraulic effect on the disc brakes of the front and rear axle via the DSC. With the engine off and vehicle at a standstill: The parking brake employs Bowden cables and the electromechanical actuator unit to operate the drum brakes on the rear axle. Driving off against the blocked brake pressure leads to another pressure increase and a Check Control message. Starting the engine leads to a switch from electromechanical to hydraulic parking brake engagement.

Fig 1: Identifying Parking Brake Button And Function Indicator Light
G09908321Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Index Explanation
1 Parking brake button
2 Function indicator light
3 Automatic Hold button with function indicator light
4 Twelve-pin plug connection

The DSC receives additional input signals from the following components:

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.