How to Use Auto Hold: The Secret to Stress-Free Stop-and-Go Driving
If you have bought a car in the last few years, you might have noticed a small button near your gear shifter labeled ‘Auto Hold’ or featuring an icon of an (A) inside a circle. While many drivers ignore it, this is one of the most practical features for anyone who spends time in traffic.
What is Auto Hold?
Auto Hold is a driver-assistance feature that automatically keeps your vehicle’s brakes applied after you have brought the car to a complete stop. Normally, when you stop at a red light, you have to keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal to prevent the car from creeping forward. With Auto Hold engaged, you can take your foot off the brake, and the car will stay exactly where it is.
How to Use It Correctly
Using Auto Hold is simple, but it requires a specific sequence to ensure safety:
- Step 1: Buckle Up. For safety reasons, most vehicles will not allow Auto Hold to activate unless the driver’s seatbelt is fastened and the door is closed.
- Step 2: Press the Button. Locate the ‘Auto Hold’ button (usually near the electronic parking brake) and press it. A light will typically appear on your dashboard indicating the system is in ‘Standby’ mode.
- Step 3: Come to a Stop. Drive as normal. When you reach a red light or a stop sign, press the brake pedal until the car is fully stationary.
- Step 4: Release the Pedal. Look for a green ‘HOLD’ icon on your dashboard. Once you see it, you can safely lift your foot off the brake. The car will not move.
- Step 5: Tap and Go. When the light turns green, simply press the accelerator pedal. The system automatically releases the brakes, and you move forward smoothly.
Why This Feature Matters
The primary benefit of Auto Hold is reducing driver fatigue. In heavy stop-and-go traffic, the constant pressure required to hold a brake pedal down can cause leg strain. It also provides an extra layer of safety on inclines, as it prevents the car from rolling backward while you transition your foot from the brake to the gas.
Important Safety Warnings
While Auto Hold is incredibly useful, there are two specific times you should turn it off:
- Automatic Car Washes: If the car wash uses a conveyor system, Auto Hold will lock your wheels and could damage the equipment or your vehicle.
- Tight Parking Maneuvers: When parallel parking, you often rely on the car ‘creeping’ slowly to get into a tight spot. Auto Hold can make this jerky and difficult to control.
By mastering the Auto Hold button, you can transform your daily commute into a much more relaxed experience. Next time you’re stuck at a long light, give your right leg a break and let your car do the holding for you.