EPB reset without a scan tool?

NANOOK75

MEMBER
2013 SUBARU OUTBACK
2.5L
4 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
134,000 MILES

Replaced rear brake pads and rotors. The brake light is now flashing. After looking that up I found that it is for the electric parking brake. It is functional and the brakes work well. Everything I can find says I need a bidirectional scan tool to reset the light, but I am hopeful there is a cycle of buttons or key turns that will clear the codes without the expensive tool.

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,959 POSTS

There is a way to reset the system without a scan tool, but it doesn't always work but it is worth a try.

Ensure the vehicle is stationary, the engine is off, and the parking brake is not engaged.

Locate the EPB switch inside the vehicle, typically near the center console or on the dashboard.

Press and hold the EPB switch in the "off" position. Keep holding it down.

While holding the switch down, turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (but do not start the engine). Continue to hold the EPB switch.

After a few seconds, you may hear the EPB motor making noises and the EPB light on the dashboard flashing. Keep holding the switch until the noise and flashing stop (this may take up to 30 seconds or more).

Release the EPB switch.

Turn off the ignition.

Start the vehicle and test the EPB to ensure it's working properly.

You can try leaving the battery disconnected overnight as well. Here is what AllData says for a forced reset. Check out the images (below). Let us know how it goes.

Image (Click to make bigger)