What is the "a" switch next to the hand break switch in some photos?

[brad9753]

Probably a really obvious question but as the title says. Thinks its only on the S Line to?

 

[cemerson]

It's the hold assist - holds the brakes on after you come to a complete stop until you set off again. It's just a toggle button to turn it on and off.

 

[cemerson]

It's not on any trim level as standard, it's a £90 option

 

[JudderMan]

I'm going back to buying pre-1990 cars.

 

[mfspen]

It's essentially just an updated version of 'hill-hold assist', except that it now works even when you are not on a slope. I have it on mine, and it's a nice touch. Would order again.

 

[B7000]

It's essentially just an updated version of 'hill-hold assist', except that it now works even when you are not on a slope. I have it on mine, and it's a nice touch. Would order again.

Exactly, I too would specify again works well but after 54 yrs driving with mechanical hand brake--------SPOOKY

 

[brad9753]

Ohh Ok thanks, something to consider.

 

[SJW]

Exactly, I too would specify again works well but after 54 yrs driving with mechanical hand brake--------SPOOKY

Totally agree with you B7000. I have only been driving for 21 years with the conventional handbrake up until now and spooky is one way of putting it.

Silly question but on topic - if you beat the electro mech system when disengaging (or just forget) the brake will you burn/damage the mechanism?

 

[cemerson]

Doubt it - all that will happen is the wheels move while the pads have pressure on them, exactly the same as happens in normal braking (but far less extreme). At worst I imagine you'd shorten the life of the pads a miniscule amount.

 

[a6_chris]

You'll stall and look like an idiot

 

[SJW]

Doubt it - all that will happen is the wheels move while the pads have pressure on them, exactly the same as happens in normal braking (but far less extreme). At worst I imagine you'd shorten the life of the pads a miniscule amount.

Perhaps a burnt rubber smell then ;-) Thanks for clarifying.

 

[SJW]

You'll stall and look like an idiot

haha - too many idiots on the roads so will just blend in

 

[mxnrg]

Silly question but on topic - if you beat the electro mech system when disengaging (or just forget) the brake will you burn/damage the mechanism?

The 'Hill Hold Assist' automatically disengages when you touch the throttle.