Can I drive with the service brake system light on?
The service brake system light is one of the most critical warning indicators on your vehicle's dashboard. It’s designed to alert you to potential issues with your braking system, which is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road. In this article, we’ll explore what this light means, why it turns on, and whether it’s safe to continue driving when it’s illuminated.
What Does the Service Brake System Light Mean?
The service brake system light typically indicates a problem with your vehicle’s braking system. This could range from minor issues, such as low brake fluid, to more serious problems, like a malfunctioning brake component. Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that monitor the brake system and trigger this warning light when something is amiss.
Common Reasons the Service Brake System Light Turns On
Here are some of the most common reasons why your service brake system light might illuminate:
- Low Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is essential for the hydraulic pressure needed to operate your brakes. If the fluid level is low, the light may turn on.
- Worn Brake Pads: Excessively worn brake pads can trigger the light, as they may compromise braking performance.
- Faulty Sensors: A malfunctioning brake sensor can cause the light to illuminate, even if the brakes are functioning properly.
- ABS Issues: Problems with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) can also activate the service brake system light.
- Hydraulic Leaks: Leaks in the brake lines or master cylinder can lead to a loss of hydraulic pressure, triggering the warning light.
Is It Safe to Drive with the Service Brake System Light On?
Driving with the service brake system light on is not recommended. While it may be safe to drive for a short distance in some cases, such as when the light is triggered by a minor issue like low brake fluid, it’s crucial to address the problem as soon as possible. Ignoring the warning could lead to brake failure, putting you and others at serious risk.
If the light comes on while you’re driving, follow these steps:
- Pull over to a safe location as soon as possible.
- Check the brake fluid level and top it off if it’s low.
- If the light remains on or you notice unusual braking behavior (e.g., spongy brakes, grinding noises), call for roadside assistance or have your vehicle towed to a trusted auto repair shop.
What Should You Do Next?
If your service brake system light is on, it’s essential to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing brake system issues to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive. Don’t take chances with your safety—schedule an appointment with us today!
Remember, your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car. Addressing any issues promptly can save you from costly repairs and, more importantly, prevent accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How urgent is a brake fluid light?
For starters if your brake warning light is on you should get it checked out ASAP. Brake problems are not something you want to put off. It could be a sign that your brakes are on the verge of failing. Stop by a brake service shop like Last Chance Auto Repair in Plainfield, IL.
What does it mean when your service brake light comes on?
When your brake light comes on, your car is letting you know that either your vehicle is low on brake fluid, the emergency brake is activated, there's trouble within the ABS unit, or there's a problem with the sensors.
Can I drive with service brake system light on?
Again, it is important that you do not continue driving and ignore the brake light, this can cause more damage to the braking system and be very dangerous. *Pro Tip: when you first turn on your vehicle, all the lights on the dashboard should illuminate.
Can I drive with a brake system warning light?
BRAKE WARNING LIGHT = BRAKE SYSTEM PROBLEM
Any brake system problem has to be regarded as a major safety issue and your car should not be driven until the problem has been resolved by a mechanic.
Can I still drive with brake warning light?
If your brake warning light comes on, try to drive your vehicle as little as possible, as continuing to drive on a faulty brake system before a diagnosis can lead to further expenses or even brake failure.
Is it safe to drive with a service parking brake light on?
It is not safe to drive with the parking brake light on as it can cause damage to brake components, impair braking capability, and increase wear on the vehicle, so it's imperative to resolve the issue before driving.
How to fix brake system warning light?
How Do You Fix a Brake Light Warning?
- Pull Over Safely.
- Restart the Vehicle and/or Dashboard.
- Replace the Brake Pads.
- Check the Brake Fluid.
- Check or Replace the Bulbs.
- Stop the vehicle and check the Parking Brake.
- Take Your Car to an Auto Shop.
- Recent Articles.
Why is my brake light on but brakes work fine?
If your brake service warning light is always on, it could be due to a need for parking brake adjustment, worn brake pads, or hydraulic issues. If your brake service warning light turns on when you hit the pedal, it could be due to hydraulic loss on one side of your vehicle or low brake fluid in the master cylinder.
What 2 reasons would cause your brake system warning light to come on?
The simplest (and oldest) light on your dashboard – the one most people refer to when they mention a brake system warning light – is the BRAKE light. When this light comes on, it means one of two things. Either the hydraulic fluid (brake fluid) in the master cylinder is low, or the parking brake is engaged.
How long can you drive after the brake fluid light comes on?
You can still drive, but filling up should be done as soon as possible; although, if the levels are too low, you may not be able to drive at all. Doing so could cause major damage to your brake system and even put your life in danger. How long you can drive on low brake fluid is the wrong question.
