C5 X7 electric handbrake service mode?

[aerodynamica]

Hi all, I need to have the C5 in a position where the rear is raised, wheels off and the engine off but the auto parking brake left off.

It always automatically applies the brake when you turn off and I wonder if you can somehow set it so that it doesn't apply the brake.

I'm sure I read/ saw somewhere that you can set it to a kind of service mode where the cables fully loosen so that new parts can be fitted. Is this only done in service box I wonder if the old style lexia I have will be able to do this.

[GiveMeABreak]

You use Diagbox to put the EPB into service mode. This is needed for some operation like changing the Calipers, discs or Pads.

The car should already be in the position you need with the suspension at the level you need for the work, then once Diagbox has been used to put the EPB into service mode, you switch off the ignition and disconnect the battery. Be wary of reconnecting the battery before you have finished any maintenance work or it will try and auto engage. Diagbox can again be used to put it back into service again or to calibrate it. Instructions should be part of the guided procedure Graeme.

[aerodynamica]

Ok Thanks Marc, I don't have diagbox so likely cannot do the work.

[GiveMeABreak]

I'm not sure what job you are doing Graeme, but you can turn the handbrake off when ready by ensuring the ignition is on, then place your foot on the brake pedal and push down on the parking brake switch to release it. Wait for the parking Lamp top go out and switch off the ignition. It should remain off. If not immediately after switching the ignition off, again put your foot on the brake and try releasing the parking brake switch. But you will have to disconnect the battery to avoid it re-engaging the minute the ignition is turned on.

[GiveMeABreak]

I should add that you may have the function in the instrument panel menu to deactivate automatic functionality. However this may of been removed in later software updates. To check:

Press the left hand steering button wheel in to access the menu on the instrument display. Car must be at a standstill with ignition on or engine running.

Select the Vehicle Parameters menu
Select COMFORT menu
If the option is there, you will see the Automatic Handbrake option. A tick indicates it is active. Rotate the scroll wheel onto this line and press the wheel to remove the tick.

This function is supposed to stop the automatic application when the engine is switched off and the automatic release (via accelerator / clutch) when driving off.

If you have this feature try turning it off and then see what happens when your turn the engine off. If not, use the method described above.

[aerodynamica]

Thanks Marc, It might have this it is an early car. I'll look into it. I'm changing one of the rear wheel bearings and think I have to remove the brake caliper and hence, the cable likely will need to be loose.

It's a job in the coming month - still have to buy a 40mm socket for the hub and a longer length hub puller than the one I have so it's a future job. Also the Xantia's MOT is due so there are some small jobs to do for that.

[GiveMeABreak]

No worries, at least you know where to check.

[aerodynamica]

Well I've had a look and it seems that it doesn't have the option to turn off the auto brake.

[GiveMeABreak]

Ok, so try my manual method. The key is disconnecting the battery once you have released the handbrake, and hope that it is released enough to accomplish the job you need, otherwise get somebody with Diagbox to put it into service mode for you Graeme.

Edit: Just seen your other post about your new spheres and note you hae a Lexia kit - so just use that to put the handbrake into service mode Graeme.

[aerodynamica]

Hello! I'm going to look at changing the rear wheel bearing this weekend and I'm going to attempt the Lexia handbrake service setting. I've not looked at the procedure on the Lexia yet and wanted to ask if anyone has done this and any pointers eg. What menu it is under (can't recall if there is a 'handbrake ' menu)

[GiveMeABreak]

It should be under the service section / maintenance. It is a guided procedure, just follow the on-screen instructions - but the important part is afterwards to ensure you carry out the electric parking brake calibration procedure, which should also be in the same section.

Just make sure the battery is disconnected after putting the EPB into service mode, as any re-connection will re-engage the handbrake Graeme.

[aerodynamica]

Thanks Marc

[Jay-Bruce]

Ok Thanks Marc, I don't have diagbox so likely cannot do the work.

The Delphi clones on eBay seem to cover this. Or depending where you are there might be someone nearby with a lexia who will help out. I'm an AB42 postcode if you want I can hook my lexia into it for you?

[aerodynamica]

Ok Thanks Marc, I don't have diagbox so likely cannot do the work.

The Delphi clones on eBay seem to cover this. Or depending where you are there might be someone nearby with a lexia who will help out. I'm an AB42 postcode if you want I can hook my lexia into it for you?

That's kind, thanks. I'm going to try it with the Lexia3 I have and see how it goes.

[GiveMeABreak]

Ok Thanks Marc, I don't have diagbox so likely cannot do the work.

I just re-read your post Graeme and see that you have the Lexia VCI (hardware), but have Lexia 3 software. As the X7 is listed as a model before the change over to Diagbox, I would expect that function to be there too. You may need to look around a bit for it though, if not in the repair / maintenance menus.

Failing that run a diagnostic, then when it is complete, again look for the EPB in the list of ECUs, it should be called FSE.

If not, then you may find it in the ESP ECU under one of the repair options there as the ESP system is the master ECU which controls the electronic handbrake ECU.

It may be that you only need to release the handbrake though Graeme. Is there any way you can try this first to see if it gives you enough slack to do the job and refit without hassle? As long as it is released and the battery disconnected, that may suffice enough for you without the faff.