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karenneumann1

CMAX electronic parking brake error

Alright C-MAX heads, I'm kinda freaking out here. My 2013 Ford C-MAX with the gasoline engine has developed a nasty habit of throwing an electronic parking brake error. The handbrake is completely useless, a warning light is glaring at me from the dashboard, and the error memory is full of codes. Anyone else had this happen? Is this a vehicle safety issue? Checked the brake switch, seemed ok. Before I spend a fortune, any ideas?

4 comment(s)

ludwig_hunter2

Whoa, that's a scary combo of issues. Electronic parking brakes are notorious for being a pain. When you say 'completely useless,' does that mean it won't engage at all, or does it try and fail? Any weird noises when you try to use it? Also, did you check the brake sensor, or just the switch? The sensor could be sending false readings. Ignoring it would be brake failure waiting to happen.

karenneumann1 (Author)

Good questions! It doesn't engage at all. No sounds, no movement, nothing. Just the error light and a sinking feeling, haha. And yeah, I only checked the brake switch visually; didn't dive into the sensor. Where exactly IS that brake sensor located? Is it easy to get to?

ludwig_hunter2

Okay, total silence is a bit more telling. The brake sensor is usually integrated into the brake caliper itself, which, honestly, makes it a pain to get to. Given that it's not even trying to engage, and you've got error codes piling up, my gut says the electric motor in the brake caliper is probably shot. You could try messing with the sensor, but honestly, at this point, I'd seriously consider a trip to a trusted workshop. Electronic brake issues aren't something to mess with. Stay safe!

karenneumann1 (Author)

Yeah, you're right. Didn't want to hear it, but you're right. Bit the bullet and took it to the shop. Turns out, the electric motor in the brake calliper was indeed defective, just like you called it. Repair cost me 505€, but at least it's fixed now. Thanks for the reality check!

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