Auto Brake Hold (Auto Hold)

Auto Brake Hold (Auto Hold) is a driving assistance feature that automatically maintains braking pressure once the vehicle has come to a complete stop, eliminating the need for the driver to keep stepping on the brake pedal or manually engage the parking brake. When waiting at a red light or stopping temporarily, releasing the brake pedal keeps the vehicle completely stationary; when moving off, simply tapping the accelerator pedal automatically releases the brakes.

How It Works

Auto Hold is an extension of the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system and generally works in tandem with the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB).

Once you step on the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, the Auto Hold system applies hydraulic pressure to all four wheels via the ESP control unit—effectively holding the brakes for you. If the vehicle is stationary for only a short period (such as waiting briefly at a red light), the system maintains braking pressure through the ESP hydraulics; if the wait is prolonged, the system automatically transfers the holding duty to the Electronic Parking Brake to ease the load on the hydraulic braking system.

When you depress the accelerator pedal, the system monitors the drive torque from the engine or electric motor. Once it determines that the driving force is sufficient to overcome rolling resistance, it automatically disengages the brakes, allowing the vehicle to move off smoothly.

Differences from Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)

Auto Hold is often confused with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), but they are distinct features with clear differences in operating logic and practical scenarios.

Comparison Aspect	Auto Hold	Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
Operating Range	Applicable on both flat roads and inclines	Active only when moving off on an uphill gradient
Holding Duration	Indefinite, holds continuously until the accelerator pedal is depressed	Holds for only about 2 to 3 seconds, releasing automatically after the timeout
Control Switch	Usually equipped with a manual physical/digital button to toggle on/off	Enabled by default, without an independent on/off switch
Hardware Dependency	Must be paired with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)	Integrated into the ESP system; compatible with traditional mechanical handbrakes

In simple terms, Hill-start Assist merely holds the brakes for a couple of seconds to prevent rollback during an uphill takeoff, whereas Auto Hold acts as a continuous automatic brake that keeps the vehicle stationary for as long as needed on both flat terrain and slopes whenever active.

Usage Scenarios and Practical Tips

Resting Your Right Foot: When waiting at traffic lights or during brief stops, there is no need to keep your foot firmly planted on the brake pedal or constantly shift between 'D' and 'N', simplifying operation while eliminating the risk of accidental rolling.

Hillside Stops: When paying parking fees at a steep carpark ramp barrier or caught in crawl traffic on an incline, Auto Hold keeps the car firmly anchored. Taking off simply requires stepping on the accelerator, making it especially reassuring for less experienced drivers.

Precautions When Reversing

When reversing into a parking bay or manoeuvring in tight spaces at crawl speeds, Auto Hold requires tapping the accelerator to release the brake, which may cause the car to lurch abruptly and increase the risk of scuffs or bumper scratches. In such situations, it is advisable to manually turn off the Auto Hold function so you can modulate smooth, low-speed creeping simply by easing off the brake pedal.

Important Reminder: Auto Hold is strictly a driver assistance feature. The system may fail to engage or may automatically disengage if the driver's seatbelt is unfastened, any door is ajar, or an ESP system fault occurs. Always pay close attention to the status indicator light on the instrument cluster during operation.