If you’ve recently purchased a Honda vehicle or are considering one, you may have noticed the “BRAKE HOLD” button near the gear shifter. This innovative feature is designed to make your driving experience more comfortable and less fatiguing, especially in stop-and-go traffic situations. But what exactly is Brake Hold, how does it work, and which Honda models include it? This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about this convenient Honda feature.
What Is Brake Hold and How Does It Work?
Brake Hold is an advanced feature in select Honda vehicles that automatically maintains brake pressure when the vehicle is stationary, even after you release the brake pedal. Think of it as an electronic helping hand that keeps your car in place without requiring you to keep your foot on the brake pedal.
Unlike the parking brake, which is designed for longer stops, Brake Hold is perfect for temporary stops like waiting at traffic lights or in congested traffic. The system uses the vehicle’s electronic stability control and anti-lock braking systems to maintain pressure on the brakes until you’re ready to move again.
How Brake Hold Differs from Other Similar Features
Brake Hold vs. Parking Brake
While both features keep your vehicle stationary, the parking brake is designed for extended stops and parking situations. Brake Hold, on the other hand, is meant for temporary stops during active driving, automatically disengaging when you press the accelerator.
Brake Hold vs. Hill Start Assist
Hill Start Assist temporarily prevents your vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline. It works for just a few seconds to give you time to move your foot from the brake to the accelerator. Brake Hold, however, will keep your vehicle stationary indefinitely until you decide to move.
How to Use the Brake Hold Feature in Honda Vehicles
Using the Brake Hold feature in your Honda is straightforward once you understand the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to activating and using this convenient feature:
Step-by-Step Instructions for Activating Brake Hold
- Activate the System: Before you can use Brake Hold, you need to turn on the system by pressing the “BRAKE HOLD” button located near the gear shifter. When activated, you’ll see the Brake Hold indicator light up on your dashboard.
- Come to a Complete Stop: Apply the brake pedal and bring your Honda to a complete stop, such as at a traffic light or in stop-and-go traffic.
- Engage Brake Hold: With the vehicle completely stopped, the system will automatically engage and you’ll notice the “HOLD” indicator illuminating on your dashboard.
- Release the Brake Pedal: You can now take your foot off the brake pedal. The Brake Hold system will keep your vehicle stationary.
- Resume Driving: When you’re ready to move again, simply press the accelerator pedal. The Brake Hold will automatically disengage, and your vehicle will move forward normally.
Important Note: For Brake Hold to work properly, your seatbelt must be fastened, and all doors must be completely closed. The system will automatically disengage if you unfasten your seatbelt or open a door.
Deactivating the Brake Hold System
If you want to turn off the Brake Hold system completely:
- Press the brake pedal and press the “BRAKE HOLD” button again.
- The Brake Hold indicator on your dashboard will turn off, indicating the system is no longer active.
Benefits of Using Brake Hold in Your Honda
The Brake Hold feature offers several significant advantages that can enhance your driving experience, particularly in specific driving situations:
Advantages of Brake Hold
- Reduced Driver Fatigue: By eliminating the need to continuously hold the brake pedal in stop-and-go traffic, Brake Hold significantly reduces leg fatigue during long commutes.
- Enhanced Comfort: The feature allows you to relax your foot during extended stops, creating a more comfortable driving experience.
- Improved Safety: Brake Hold prevents accidental rolling when stopped on inclines or in traffic, adding an extra layer of safety.
- Convenience in Daily Driving: The system makes everyday driving scenarios like waiting at drive-thrus, traffic lights, or in congested traffic much more convenient.
Limitations to Consider
- Learning Curve: New users may need time to get comfortable with the system and remember to activate it.
- Not for Extended Parking: Brake Hold is not designed to replace the parking brake for longer stops.
- System Requirements: The feature requires your seatbelt to be fastened and all doors to be closed to function properly.
Practical Scenarios Where Brake Hold Excels
Heavy Traffic
During rush hour or congested traffic situations where you frequently stop and go, Brake Hold eliminates the need to continuously shift between the brake and accelerator pedals.
Long Traffic Lights
When waiting at extended traffic lights, you can relax your foot instead of holding the brake pedal for the entire duration.
Drive-Thru Lines
While waiting in drive-thru lines at restaurants or banks, Brake Hold allows you to rest your foot and more comfortably handle items like food, money, or documents.
Honda Models with Brake Hold Feature
The Brake Hold feature is available on many newer Honda models, though availability may vary depending on the trim level and model year. Here’s a breakdown of popular Honda models that typically include this convenient feature:
| Honda Model | Availability | Notes |
| Honda Civic | Most trims since 2016 | Standard on EX trims and above |
| Honda Accord | Most trims since 2018 | Standard on all current generation models |
| Honda CR-V | Most trims since 2017 | Standard on EX trims and above |
| Honda Pilot | Most trims since 2019 | Standard on EX-L trims and above |
| Honda HR-V | Select trims since 2019 | Standard on EX and Touring trims |
| Honda Odyssey | Most trims since 2018 | Standard on EX trims and above |
Note: Feature availability may vary by region, model year, and specific trim level. Always check your vehicle’s owner manual or consult with your local Honda dealer to confirm if your specific model is equipped with the Brake Hold feature.
Important Usage Considerations and Limitations
While the Brake Hold feature is designed to enhance your driving experience, there are some important considerations to keep in mind for proper and safe usage:
When should I use Brake Hold instead of the Parking Brake?
Brake Hold is ideal for temporary stops during active driving, such as at traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic. For longer stops, parking, or when leaving the vehicle, always use the parking brake instead.
Will Brake Hold work on steep hills?
While Brake Hold can maintain your vehicle’s position on inclines, Honda recommends using the parking brake for stops on steep hills for added safety. Always follow the guidelines in your owner’s manual.
Does Brake Hold drain the battery?
The Brake Hold system uses minimal power and should not significantly impact your battery life during normal operation. However, the system will automatically disengage if the engine is turned off.
What happens if I unfasten my seatbelt while Brake Hold is active?
If you unfasten your seatbelt while Brake Hold is engaged, the system will automatically apply the electronic parking brake for safety. You’ll need to refasten your seatbelt and press the brake pedal to release the parking brake.
Enhancing Your Honda Driving Experience with Brake Hold
The Brake Hold feature represents Honda’s commitment to creating vehicles that are not only safe and reliable but also comfortable and convenient to drive. By automatically maintaining brake pressure when stopped, this innovative feature reduces driver fatigue and enhances comfort, particularly in stop-and-go traffic situations that are common in daily driving.
Taking the time to understand and properly use the Brake Hold feature in your Honda can significantly improve your driving experience. It’s one of those conveniences that, once you get used to it, you’ll wonder how you ever drove without it.
