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How does the parking brake work? Is there an electric solenoid or something that engages when you set the electronic parking brake? How does it physically go from pulling up on the parking brake button to engaging the actual brake?

The same question with the brake hold?

And lastly, and most importantly, if these are electronic then these questions...

1. Has there been any electronic issues with either the parking brake or brake hold not releasing and stranding the driver because he can't get the brake off?

2. What happens if the battery runs down while in the parking brake is engaged? Does it automatically release? In other words, does it need power to stay in the set condition?

3. If there were to be an electronic issue does the brake hold have some sort of fail-safe that will release so that the driver is not stuck at a light?

tex

 
Rep Power: 519

Electric motor on each rear caliper.
Electronic function within the ABS/VSA system.

I've only heard (read) of a few people who left loose change laying around get a random coin lodged under the edge of the button. (various Honda models, not just Civic)
Brakes stay applied. The electric motors must be powered in order to release. No, the electric motors cannot be constantly operating, that would kill the battery in short order.
They apply and turn off. Release and turn off.

In the event of an ABS/VSA failure affecting that area of operation it would be disabled.

HTH