The parking brake locks the vehicle's rear wheels. When parked, the vehicle monitors and automatically tightens the grip if necessary.
By pulling the parking brake switch 
in the center console when you're at a standstill, you engage the parking brake. Your vehicle can automatically engage the parking brake in several situations.
Important
Parking gear
The parking gear and the parking brake are not the same thing. While the parking gear is capable of holding the vehicle stationary to a certain degree, it is not sufficient in all situations. Be sure to engage the parking brake after parking, as its applied braking force is much larger. This is particularly important when parking on an incline.
The instrument panel indicates when the vehicle is in park and the parking brake is engaged.
Warning
Avoid parking on a slope in wintry conditions. The tires might lose traction, even if the parking brake is engaged. You are always responsible for safe parking. Check the parking brake warning symbol for the parking brake status.
Note
At high speeds, pulling and holding the parking brake switch will slow the vehicle down at a steady rate. This provides a backup alternative to braking normally. Only use the parking brake like this if you are unable to brake using the brake pedal.
