Is this function meant to be available when the engine is turned off?

 

Is the vehicle unlocked with the parking brake applied?

 

No, the vehicle was off. Don’t work with car unlocked or locked but that’s with the engine he off.

How do I apply the parking break?

 

Roof Access mode
Roof Access mode allows the side steps to be deployed indefinitely. For example, to access the roof, for cleaning purposes, or for accessing the jacking points.
To enable Roof Access mode:

1. Make sure the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) is applied. See ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE (EPB).
2. Make sure the vehicle is unlocked.
3. Touch the settings icon on the touchscreen.
4. Select Vehicle.
5. Select Side Steps.
6. Select Roof Access.

The side steps remain deployed until:

1. Roof Access mode is deselected via the touchscreen.
2. The vehicle is locked.
3. The vehicle's speed exceeds 5 km/h (3 mph).

I suspect you can shut the vehicle off once these steps are followed and they will remain deployed as long as you don't lock it. I haven't tried it.
The electric parking brake is just below the shifter.

 

I suspect you can shut the vehicle off once these steps are followed and they will remain deployed as long as you don't lock it.

Yes, you can. Keep the keys inside the vehicle after shutting it off, and the steps will stay deployed.

 

So I went out and tested this trying to simulate a tire change etc. I selected roof access mode, put the parking brake on and left the key inside. Exited the vehicle and closed the doors. After about 5 minutes, the side steps retracted. This is a possible disaster if you have it jacked up while changing a tire. Anyone know how to do this and keep them extended indefinitely?