If you own a Subaru and find yourself stuck in brake maintenance mode, don’t worry! There are two effective methods to get your car back to normal: using a scan tool or performing a hard reset.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps for both methods and discuss some essential tips to prevent your Subaru from going into brake maintenance mode in the future.
Using a Scan Tool
Using a scan tool is the preferred method to reset the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) in your Subaru. It’s a reliable and safe option that won’t harm your car’s electrical system. Here’s how you can do it:
- Connect the scan tool to the OBD-II port located under the dashboard. Make sure the connection is secure.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine.
- On the scan tool, navigate to the “EPB” or “Electronic Parking Brake” menu.
- Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the scan tool to reset the EPB. It may take a few moments for the process to complete.
Read also: How to Turn Off Auto Park Brake on Jeep Renegade
Performing a Hard Reset
If you don’t have access to a scan tool, you can perform a hard reset to get your Subaru out of brake maintenance mode.
While this method is effective, it comes with a slight risk of causing electrical issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the hard reset:
- Park your Subaru on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Engage the parking brake to secure the vehicle in place.
- Open the hood of your car and locate the negative battery terminal.
- Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative battery cable.
- Once loosened, disconnect the negative battery cable from the terminal.
- Allow the car to sit without power for at least 10 minutes. This will enable the car’s systems to fully reset.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable to the terminal and tighten the nut securely using the wrench.
- Start the engine and wait for the brake system to initialize fully.
Which Method Should You Use?
If you have access to a scan tool, it is strongly recommended to use it to reset the EPB. The scan tool method is more reliable and less likely to cause any electrical problems in your Subaru.
On the other hand, the hard reset method can be utilized if a scan tool is unavailable, but it carries a slightly higher risk of potential electrical issues.
Consequences of Not Getting Your Subaru Out of Brake Maintenance Mode
Failing to get your Subaru out of brake maintenance mode can lead to inconvenience and functional limitations in your vehicle.
Without resetting the EPB, you won’t be able to use the electronic parking brake, forcing you to rely solely on the manual parking brake when parking your car.
Additionally, certain advanced features like cruise control and EyeSight may become temporarily disabled until the EPB issue is resolved.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Brake Maintenance Mode
To prevent your Subaru from entering brake maintenance mode, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
Regularly check and replace the brake pads and rotors at the specified intervals. Proper brake maintenance not only ensures the smooth functioning of your EPB but also enhances overall driving safety.
Moreover, it is advisable to avoid driving your Subaru in extreme conditions such as deep snow or mud, as such conditions can accelerate brake wear and trigger the brake maintenance mode.
Read also: How Much Can a Mazda CX 5 Tow?
Conclusion
In conclusion, if your Subaru ends up in brake maintenance mode, don’t panic! You now have two effective methods to resolve the issue: using a scan tool or performing a hard reset.
The scan tool method is the preferred choice, while the hard reset is a viable alternative if a scan tool is not available.
Remember to prioritize preventive measures by following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and avoiding extreme driving conditions to keep your Subaru’s brake system in optimal condition.
FAQs
What is brake maintenance mode in a Subaru?
Brake maintenance mode is an electronic safety feature in Subarus that triggers when the brake system needs attention or resetting.
Can I drive my Subaru while it’s in brake maintenance mode?
Yes, you can drive your Subaru in brake maintenance mode, but you will have to use the manual parking brake.
How often should I check my Subaru’s brake system?
It’s recommended to check your Subaru’s brake system as per the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, usually every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
Is brake maintenance mode a sign of a serious issue?
Not necessarily. Brake maintenance mode is often triggered by routine brake system maintenance requirements.
Can I reset the EPB using any scan tool?
To ensure compatibility and safety, it’s best to use a scan tool designed for your Subaru model.
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