Electronic Parking Brake System in the All New Pajero Sport
The All New Pajero Sport is equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) system. This system uses an electric motor to pull a handbrake cable, which in turn engages the rear brake shoes on the rear wheels. This modern mechanism replaces the traditional handbrake lever, offering a more convenient and efficient braking experience.
Parking Brake Trouble: System Not Engaging
A malfunction occurred in the parking brake system of the All New Pajero Sport, where the parking brake could not be activated. When attempting to engage the electronic parking brake, a warning appeared on the dashboard saying “Parking Brake Service Required”. Even though the EPB switch was pressed, the system did not function—the rear wheels remained free to rotate, indicating that the brake mechanism was not working properly.
Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Steps
A series of inspections were carried out to identify the issue:
-
Fuse Check
All fuses related to the electronic parking brake were examined and found to be in good condition. -
Motor Function Test
The EPB motor was tested and appeared to be functional, as it vibrated when the switch was activated. -
Cable Inspection
The handbrake cables were inspected for any breaks or disconnections. No visible damage or cuts were found. -
Rear Brake Assembly Inspection
Both rear wheels were removed, followed by the removal of the brake drums. This allowed full access to the brake components mounted on the backing plates.
Identifying the Brake Cable Disconnection
During the inspection of the right rear wheel, it was found that the handbrake cable had become detached from the brake shoe. This meant that when the EPB motor pulled the cable, the brake shoes did not move or engage, as there was no connection. The cable was completely loose and not performing its intended function.
Repair and Reassembly
Once the detached cable was identified, it was reinstalled in its correct position on the brake shoe.
-
The left rear brake was still in good condition, with all components in place, so it was simply cleaned.
-
The brake drums were then reinstalled, and the wheels were secured back using wheel bolts to ensure the drum stayed in place.
System Testing After Repair
After reassembly, the electronic parking brake system was tested:
-
Turning ON the EPB switch caused the motor to pull the cable and successfully lock the rear wheels.
-
Turning OFF the switch released the brake, allowing the wheels to spin freely.
-
The dashboard warning was then cleared using an OBD diagnostic scan tool. After deletion, the warning no longer appeared.
A road test was performed, including testing the EPB on a slope. The system held the vehicle securely when engaged, and released smoothly when disengaged—confirming that the system had returned to normal function.
Conclusion
The issue was caused by a detached brake cable, which rendered the parking brake ineffective. After reattaching the cable and performing full diagnostics and tests, the electronic parking brake system was fully restored. This case highlights the importance of thoroughly inspecting both electrical and mechanical components when dealing with EPB-related warnings.
Resolving the "Parking Brake Service Required" Issue in All New Pajero SportBengkel Karya Prima Motor
The All New Pajero Sport is equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) system that utilizes a motor to engage the rear brake pads via a handbrake cable. This system enhances convenience but can present challenges when malfunctions occur.Bengkel Karya Prima Motor
Understanding the Electronic Parking Brake System
In the EPB system, activating the parking brake switch sends a signal to the motor, which then pulls the handbrake cable, engaging the rear brake pads. This mechanism ensures the vehicle remains stationary when parked.
Symptoms of the "Parking Brake Service Required" Alert
When the EPB system encounters issues, the following symptoms may arise:
-
A warning message appears on the dashboard indicating "Parking Brake Service Required."
-
Activating the parking brake switch does not engage the rear brakes; the rear wheels remain free to rotate.
-
The parking brake motor emits a vibration, suggesting it is operational, but the brakes do not engage.
Diagnostic Steps Undertaken
To identify the root cause of the malfunction, the following diagnostic steps were performed:
-
Fuse Inspection: All fuses related to the EPB system were checked and found to be in good condition.
-
Motor Functionality Test: The parking brake motor was tested and confirmed to be operational, as indicated by noticeable vibrations during activation.
-
Cable Examination: The handbrake cables were inspected for continuity and integrity; no breaks or disconnections were found.
-
Rear Brake Assembly Inspection: The rear wheels were removed, and the brake drums were taken off to examine the brake components.
Identifying the Fault
Upon inspecting the right rear brake assembly, it was discovered that the handbrake cable had become detached from the brake shoe. As a result, when the parking brake motor was activated, it failed to engage the brake pads, leaving the rear wheels unrestrained.
Repair Procedure
The following steps were taken to rectify the issue:
-
The detached handbrake cable was reattached to the brake shoe on the right rear wheel.
-
The left rear brake assembly was inspected and found to be intact; it was cleaned to ensure optimal performance.
-
The brake drums and wheels were reinstalled securely.
Post-Repair Verification
After completing the repairs, the EPB system was tested:
-
Activating the parking brake switch successfully engaged the rear brakes, immobilizing the rear wheels.
-
Deactivating the switch released the brakes, allowing the rear wheels to rotate freely.
-
The "Parking Brake Service Required" warning was cleared using a diagnostic scan tool.
-
A road test confirmed the EPB system was functioning correctly, including on inclines where the electronic parking brake effectively held the vehicle stationary.
Preventive Measures
To prevent similar issues in the future, consider the following maintenance tips:
-
Regularly inspect the handbrake cables and brake assemblies for signs of wear or disconnection.
-
Ensure the EPB system is engaged and disengaged periodically to maintain its functionality.
-
Have the EPB system checked during routine vehicle servicing to detect potential issues early.
Suggested Visual Aids
To enhance understanding, the following images are recommended:
-
Dashboard Warning Indicator: An image displaying the "Parking Brake Service Required" message on the vehicle's dashboard.
-
EPB System Diagram: A schematic illustrating the components and operation of the electronic parking brake system.
-
Brake Assembly Photo: A photograph showing the rear brake assembly with the handbrake cable connected to the brake shoe.


















