Mechanic Wiki: How to Put Hyundai Kona into EPB Service Mode (Manual & Scan Tool)

Step-by-step guide to activate EPB service mode on your Hyundai Kona. Manual button sequence for 2018-2020 models, plus scan tool method for 2021+.

Published: June 27, 2026

Quick Answer

To put a Hyundai Kona into EPB service mode, turn the ignition ON (engine off), press and hold the EPB switch down (release direction), then step on the brake pedal and hold both for about three seconds. You will hear a motor whir and see the EPB warning light blink — this retracts the calipers for brake service. Exit by pressing the EPB switch up (apply direction) while holding the brake pedal.

What Is EPB Service Mode and Why You Need It

The Electric Parking Brake (EPB) on your Hyundai Kona uses small motors inside each rear caliper to clamp the brake pads when you press the switch. Under normal driving, these motors are engaged and hold the pads firmly against the rotor. But when you need to replace rear brake pads, resurface the rotors, or overhaul the caliper, those motors must retract fully so you can push the piston back into the caliper housing. That is exactly what EPB service mode does — it safely disengages the motors and tells the system, “Hands off, I’m working on the brakes.”

Why is this so important? The motors are not designed to be forced back. If you try to push the caliper piston without entering service mode, you risk stripping the plastic actuator gear inside the EPB assembly. That is an expensive repair — often requiring a whole new caliper. Even worse, you might damage the parking brake module and trigger fault codes like C1622 or C1626. I have seen DIYers turn a simple pad swap into a $500 job because they skipped this step.

You will need service mode whenever:

Replacing rear brake pads (most common)
Resurfacing or replacing rear rotors
Repacking or replacing rear calipers
Performing any work that requires pushing the rear caliper piston back

Prerequisites Before Starting

Before you begin, take a few minutes to set yourself up for success. Rushing this step is the fastest way to an afternoon headache.

Safety first. Park on level ground. Chock both front wheels — the rear will be lifted soon, and you do not want the car rolling. Wear eye protection and gloves. Brake dust contains heavy metals, and you do not want that in your lungs.

Check your battery. The EPB motors draw a fair amount of current. If your 12V battery is weak (below about 12.2V), the motors may not retract or the system may abort the procedure mid-way. If the Kona has been sitting for a few weeks, throw the battery on a charger for an hour before starting. On the Kona EV, remember: the high-voltage traction battery does not charge the 12V battery while the car is parked. So plug in or use a maintainer.

Gather your tools. You will need:

A basic socket set (10mm, 14mm, 17mm are common for brake caliper bolts)
A brake pad spreader or large C-clamp
A flathead screwdriver (for prying off clips)
Optional but helpful: an OBD2 scan tool (like Autel or Launch) for troubleshooting

Also, know your owner’s manual location. If something goes wrong, the emergency release procedure for the EPB is usually in there.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Manual Method – No Scan Tool)

Most Hyundai Kona models from 2018 to 2020 accept a simple button sequence to enter service mode. The 2021+ facelift (NX4) may be pickier, but try this first — it works about 80% of the time.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

Turn the ignition ON — press the start button twice without touching the brake pedal (or turn the key to the ON position). Do not start the engine. The dash lights should illuminate, and the infotainment may power on. Confirm that the Electronic Parking Brake is currently disengaged — the red P light on the dash should be off. If it is on, press the EPB switch down to release it.

Step 2: Activate Service Mode

Press and hold the EPB switch in the down (release) direction — the same direction you use to disengage the parking brake.
While keeping that switch held down, press and hold the brake pedal firmly. Push it all the way — do not just tap it.
Continue holding both for approximately three seconds.
You will hear a distinct whirring or clicking sound from the rear of the car as the EPB motors retract. The EPB warning light on the dashboard will start blinking (or show “Service Mode” on some clusters).
Release both the switch and brake pedal once the sound stops. The Kona is now in EPB service mode.

Step 3: Verify Service Mode

Look at the instrument cluster — the EPB light should be flashing, not solid. If it is solid, the procedure did not take. Try again, making sure you are pressing the switch down (not up) and that the brake pedal is fully depressed.

Pop the hood and check the brake fluid reservoir. It should be at or near the MAX line. Then go to the rear wheel. Try to push the caliper piston back using a pad spreader or C-clamp — it should slide in with minimal resistance. If it fights you, do not force it. Repeat the service mode activation.

Step 4: Perform Brake Service

Now you can safely remove the caliper bolts, swing the caliper up, and replace the pads or rotors. Important: While the caliper is retracted in service mode, do not press the brake pedal. Doing so could push fluid out of the reservoir or force the piston back out. If you need to press the pedal for any reason (e.g., bleeding), exit service mode first.

Step 5: Exit Service Mode

After the brake work is complete, reinstall the caliper and wheel (torque lug nuts to spec). Then:

Press the brake pedal and hold it down.
Simultaneously press the EPB switch up (apply direction) for three seconds. The EPB warning light will stop blinking and glow solid.
Release both. Then apply and release the parking brake two times manually to let the system re-learn its home position.
Start the engine and drive slowly while testing the parking brake at low speed to confirm it holds and releases normally.

Alternative Method: Using a Scan Tool

If the manual button sequence does not work — common on 2021+ Konas with updated software — you will need a diagnostic scan tool. This is also the preferred method if you want precise control over each caliper individually.

When to use a scan tool:

Manual method fails after three attempts
Your Kona is a 2021 or newer model (NX4 facelift)
You need to retract only one caliper (e.g., piston repair)
You want to verify the system status and clear any lurking fault codes

Procedure:

Connect a compatible OBD2 scanner (Autel MaxiCOM, Launch X431, or similar) to the diagnostic port under the dash.
Turn ignition ON (engine off).
Navigate to EPB / Parking Brake → Service Mode → Rear Brake Service.
Select Retract. The scanner will command the motors to retract. You can often choose left or right individually.
Perform your service, then select Apply or Exit Service Mode on the scanner.
Follow any on-screen prompts — some scanners ask you to press the brake pedal or the EPB switch to confirm.

The advantage of a scan tool? It is far more reliable on newer software, and it gives you diagnostic feedback. If a motor is stuck, the scanner will report a fault rather than leaving you guessing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

EPB Does Not Enter Service Mode

This is the most common frustration. Here is what to check:

Battery voltage low – Measure at the battery terminals. Below 12.4V, charge or use a booster pack.
Brake pedal not fully depressed – Floor mats sometimes block full travel. Pull them back.
Switch direction wrong – Double-check that you are pressing down (release), not up (apply). The icons on the switch can be confusing.
Ignition not fully ON – On push-button start, press the button twice (once for accessory, twice for ignition). Look for the dash warning lights. If the radio is on but the dash is dark, you are in accessory mode — not enough.
Faulty EPB switch – The switch can fail. Test it with a multimeter: continuity should break when pressed. If it stays open, replace it. On some Konas, the switch is part of the center console module and requires removal to access.

Caliper Still Stuck After Entering Service Mode

Even with the motors retracted, a seized caliper piston can be stubborn. Work carefully:

Seized piston – Spray penetrating oil around the piston boot (carefully, avoid rubber). Let it sit 15 minutes, then use a caliper wind-back tool — do not hammer or use a C-clamp aggressively.
EPB motor gear stripped – If you hear clicking but no movement, the plastic gear inside the actuator may be stripped. This requires replacing the EPB actuator assembly (often sold with the caliper).
Service mode not fully engaged – The motor sound is a good indicator. If you did not hear it, repeat the steps. Some Konas require holding the switch for up to 5 seconds.

Error Codes After Exiting Service Mode

If a check engine light or EPB warning stays on after your service, common codes include C1622 (EPB motor circuit), C1626 (caliper position sensor), or U0100 (lost communication with ECU). Do not panic. Often this happens because the system senses a mismatch in caliper position. The fix:

Drive the car a short distance (a few hundred feet) and reapply the parking brake two or three times.
If codes remain, use a scan tool to clear them. On many models, simply exiting service mode correctly and cycling the parking brake clears the faults automatically.
If codes come back immediately, double-check your mechanical work — did you install the pads correctly? Is the caliper secured? Is the brake fluid level correct?

Variations Across Hyundai Kona Model Years

2018–2020 Kona (OS/OS EV) – The manual method (hold switch down + brake pedal) works reliably on these models. A scan tool is optional but can be helpful for reading diagnostic data.

2021+ Kona (NX4 facelift) – Some of these models have updated EPB firmware that requires a scan tool for service mode. The manual method sometimes works, but if you try five times with no result, do not keep forcing it — grab a scanner. The procedure is the same across gas and hybrid versions.

Kona EV – The EPB system is identical to the gas version. The main difference: the 12V battery can drain quickly if you leave the ignition on for long periods. If you are working for more than 15 minutes, connect a battery maintainer. The high-voltage system will not charge the 12V battery unless the car is running or plugged in.

Trim Levels with Auto-Hold – If your Kona has the Auto-Hold feature (a button near the EPB switch with a (A) icon), disable it before starting. Press the Auto-Hold button so the indicator turns off. Otherwise, the system may try to apply the brakes while you are working.

Important Safety Warnings

Never enter service mode while the vehicle is lifted on jacks without chocking the front wheels. The rear wheels are off the ground, but if the car rolls forward, you have a problem.
Do not press the brake pedal repeatedly while the calipers are retracted. The master cylinder may overflow and spray brake fluid, which damages paint and is toxic.
If the EPB fails to release after service, look for the emergency release cable in the trunk or under the rear seat. Your owner’s manual shows its location. Pulling the cable manually disengages the parking brake so you can at least move the car — but do not drive with the cable pulled; get to a shop.
Always test the parking brake on a flat road before driving. Apply it at low speed (under 5 mph) to make sure it holds and releases smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put my Hyundai Kona into EPB service mode without a scanner?
Yes, most models from 2018 to 2020 accept the manual sequence — hold EPB switch down and brake pedal for 3 seconds. If it does not work on a 2021+ model, you may need a scan tool.

How long does service mode last?
Service mode stays active until you manually exit it or turn the ignition off. Some vehicles have a timeout of about 10 minutes of inactivity. If the timer expires, the system may re-apply the parking brake, so work efficiently.

What happens if I drive with EPB in service mode?
Do not drive. The parking brake will not apply if you press the switch, and the calipers will not self-adjust. The rear brakes may drag or not function at all. Exit service mode before moving the car.

Do I need to reconnect the battery after service?
Not unless you disconnected it during work. If you did, you may need to initialize the EPB by applying and releasing the parking brake three times after startup. The system usually relearns automatically within a few cycles.

My Kona has electronic shift-by-wire – does that affect the procedure?
No. The shift lever position does not matter. Only the ignition state and the EPB switch matter. You can leave the shifter in Park.

Can I use this method on other Hyundai models (e.g., Tucson, Santa Fe)?
The button sequence is similar for many Hyundai and Kia models, but always verify for your specific vehicle. The Tucson (2019+) uses the same pattern, while the Santa Fe (2020+) may require a slightly different hold time. Check your owner’s manual.

Final Tips for a Successful EPB Service

Always test the EPB function after exiting service mode: apply and release the parking brake at least twice with the engine running. You should hear the motors and feel the brake hold.
If the brake pedal feels soft after service, the calipers may need to be reseated. With the engine off, pump the brake pedal slowly 10–15 times. This pushes the pads against the rotors. Then start the engine and test.
For DIYers: take a picture of your dash warning lights before starting. If a light stays on after service, you have a reference for what is normal.
When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Hyundai dealer. The manual method is safe and free — but a scan tool gives you diagnostic confidence.

For more details on EPB systems across Hyundai models, check out our related guide on [link to related guide on EPB service for Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe].

If you need a compatible scan tool, [link to recommended OBD2 scanners for Hyundai/Kia] reviews the best options for DIYers and professionals.

About the Author: Erwin Salarda is an Automotive Service Equipment Technician based in the Philippines, specializing in computerized automotive diagnostic equipment such as OBD scanners and wheel alignment systems. Since 2012, he has been actively providing technical support, equipment installation, troubleshooting, after-sales service, and hands-on training for automotive service equipment used by workshops and automotive professionals.

He has received specialized training from international suppliers and manufacturers, including Launch X431 in Shenzhen, China, Lawrence Engineering Company in Guangzhou, China, and 3Excel Wheel Alignment Company in Shenzhen, China. Through these trainings, he developed advanced expertise in automotive diagnostics, calibration, wheel alignment systems, and computerized automotive service technologies.

Erwin Salarda provides professional after-sales support and technical training for automotive diagnostic and wheel alignment equipment, helping clients maximize the performance and proper use of their tools and systems. His experience covers equipment setup, software updates, calibration procedures, troubleshooting, and operational guidance for automotive workshops and service centers.

With more than a decade of experience in the automotive equipment industry, Erwin Salarda continues to support automotive businesses by delivering reliable technical expertise and practical training solutions.

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