How to Use an E-Brake and Park on a Hill – Subaru Edition

Whether you’re navigating the steep streets of Salt Lake City or parking on a mountain overlook in Big Cottonwood Canyon, knowing how to properly use your electronic parking brake (e-brake) is essential—especially in a Subaru. Built for Utah’s hills, canyons, and snowy driveways, Subarus come equipped with advanced hill-hold and electronic brake systems that make parking on an incline safer and easier than ever.

How to Park a Subaru on a Hill (Step-by-Step)

Whether you’re parking uphill or downhill, follow these Subaru-specific instructions to stay secure:

Parking Uphill (With a Curb)

• Turn your steering wheel away from the curb.
• Shift into Park (automatic) or 1st gear (manual).
• Engage the e-brake by pulling the switch up.
• Turn off the engine.

Parking Downhill (With a Curb)

• Turn your steering wheel toward the curb.
• Shift into Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual).
• Pull the e-brake until the indicator light turns on.
• Shut off the engine.

No Curb? Point Your Wheels

Always turn your wheels toward the shoulder or edge of the road so your Subaru won’t roll into traffic.

What Is an E-Brake and How Does It Work in a Subaru?

Subaru vehicles today typically come with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) instead of a traditional handbrake. This system is activated by pulling a small switch near the gear shifter, which electronically engages the rear brakes.

Key features of Subaru's EPB:

• Engages automatically when the vehicle is turned off (select models)
• Releases automatically when accelerating from a stop (on CVT-equipped models)
• Integrates with Subaru's Hill Holder System for easier starts on steep inclines

Pro Tip: If you drive a manual Subaru like a WRX, you'll still want to master traditional handbrake technique for hill starts.

What Is Subaru Hill Holder and How Is It Different?

Subaru’s Hill Holder Assist is a separate system that keeps your car from rolling backward when starting on a hill. It works automatically on most modern Subarus when you're stopped on a slope. It does not replace the e-brake—especially for parking.

• E-brake: Use for parking and emergency stops.
• Hill Holder: Use for smoother take-offs on inclines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Relying only on Park (P): This strains your transmission. Always engage the e-brake.
• Not turning the wheels: If your Subaru rolls, your tires should hit the curb—not traffic.
• Forgetting to disengage manually (manual transmission): On older models, you'll need to release the e-brake before driving.

Bonus Tips for Utah Drivers

• In snowy conditions, clear snow from under your tires and avoid parking on ice patches.
• If you're camping or parking on a dirt incline, wedge a rock behind your tires as a backup.
• Always double-check that the e-brake indicator is lit before walking away from your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Subarus are built for the mountains, but it’s your responsibility to park safely—especially on Utah’s hilly terrain. Using your electronic parking brake correctly not only protects your vehicle but also prevents accidents and wear on your transmission.

If you have questions about how your Subaru’s EPB or Hill Holder system works, the team at Mark Miller Subaru is here to help. Visit us at our Salt Lake City or South Towne locations, or schedule a quick tutorial with our service experts.