Vw passat B6 handbreak issues

**Bigbull** · 05-03-2016,10:29 PM

I all I have a vw passat B6 I have been having issues with the eletric handbreak sometimes it says it failed then if I just wait a couple of mins and try again it will engage and go on can anyone suggest what could be up

**benny1982** · 06-03-2016,01:36 AM

Change the switch out $10 on ebay ,happens with a lot of b6's

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**RichardSEL** · 06-03-2016,10:45 AM

As above from Oz. Replacement switch is the "C" version ("C" on the end of the part #)
Although not as cheap as AUS$10 over here

When your EPB's operating do you hear both NS and OS motors run?

**Bigbull** · 06-03-2016,12:40 PM

Hi when button has been pressed you hear the motors run but like what happened last night it said handbreak failure

**DMitch16** · 06-03-2016,02:12 PM

Does the button light come on? If not there will be a Function Lamp in Control Head fault stored which basically means the button diode / bulb has blown. Replace button as per previous advice.

Getting a fault code scan with VCDS / VagCom will provide more detail.

**Bigbull** · 06-03-2016,05:47 PM

The light comes on but it says on the info screen that handbreak failure see handbook but sent it back where we bought it from and there could find anything with the codes so they reset the full lot and sent it back and it happened again last night but after a couple of seconds it come on with out a problem

**DMitch16** · 06-03-2016,06:43 PM

If there is a Parking Brake fault light on your dashboard there will be a fault code. The place where you bought the car may not have the diagnostic software to "see" all fault codes stored and are only able to do a reset (a clear all codes type tool). The car should be scanned for faults with VCDS (VagCom) or anything capable of reporting fault codes like VAS from all modules installed on the car (VAS is the dealer diagnostic tool). When referring to an EPB system "Handbrake Failure" could mean lots of things as the system is more complex than a mechanical lever handbrake and such a message will not necessarily that your hand brake has failed but that one of its components is faulty.

**Bigbull** · 06-03-2016,07:22 PM

At the min it's flashing not release the handbreak anyone know how to get it to work

**RichardSEL** · 06-03-2016,07:35 PM

This is the forerunner to EPB motor failure IMO
You may be lucky in doing what's been referred to as a "soft reset". I've never tried this coz I've got VCDS
(and don't even know if it's an internet old wives' tale) but there's no loss in having a go...

Note... continued use of the EPB with only one calliper or calliper motor operating can cause damage to the controller module. Be warned that these modules contain delicate electronic switches that have not been sufficiently over-rated to take into account continuous use in fault conditions. Disconnect the connector to the faulty EPB at the earliest opportunity. And put up with the bongs and warning light until you get the fault fixed. They cannot then be shut off with VCDS.

Forced Reset of EPB Control Module
• Switch ignition OFF.
• Disconnect battery.
• Wait at least 10 seconds and reconnect battery.
• Switch ignition ON.
• While pressing brake pedal, operate electronic parking brake button twice

I've got a help .doc of the best bits I've found about the EPB fault. PM me an email address for return attach