Can you drive with electric parking brake light on?
As a car owner, it's essential to understand the various warning lights on your dashboard, especially the electric parking brake light. This article will explore what it means when this light is illuminated and whether it's safe to drive your vehicle under such circumstances.
Understanding the Electric Parking Brake Light
The electric parking brake light typically indicates that there is an issue with the parking brake system. This system is designed to keep your vehicle stationary when parked, and it can also assist in preventing rollaway accidents. When the light is on, it could signify several potential issues:
- The parking brake is engaged.
- There is a malfunction in the electric parking brake system.
- The brake fluid level is low.
- There may be a problem with the brake pads or other components.
Is It Safe to Drive?
Driving with the electric parking brake light on is generally not advisable. Here are some reasons why:
- Safety Risks: If the parking brake is engaged, it can cause significant wear on the brake components and may lead to overheating.
- Potential for Brake Failure: Ignoring the warning could result in a complete failure of the braking system, which is dangerous.
- Legal Implications: In some regions, driving with a malfunctioning brake system can lead to fines or penalties.
What to Do If the Light Is On
If you notice the electric parking brake light illuminated, follow these steps:
- Check the Parking Brake: Ensure that the parking brake is fully released.
- Inspect Brake Fluid Level: Check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off if necessary.
- Consult a Professional: If the light remains on, it's crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and resolve the issue.
Conclusion
In summary, while it may be tempting to drive with the electric parking brake light on, doing so can pose serious risks to your safety and the integrity of your vehicle. Always prioritize your safety and the functionality of your car by addressing any warning lights promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to drive with an EPB light on?
If the Parking Brake warning light remains on after the Parking Brake is released whilst the engine is running, there may be a malfunction in the brake system. If possible, stop driving the vehicle immediately.
Why is my electronic parking brake light on?
Typically, your brake system warning light being on means your parking brake is engaged, but if you're still seeing the red (or orange) warning on your dash while the parking brake is disengaged, you will need to get your brakes inspected as soon as possible.
What happens if you drive with an electronic parking brake on?
“We found that the electronic parking brake does stop the vehicle,” says Mike Crossen, Consumer Reports' auto technician. “When the parking brake engages, it can best be described as a noisy stop. The overall experience falls somewhere between a panic stop and normal braking.”
Is it safe to drive with parking brake light on?
It is generally not safe to drive with the parking brake light on. Driving with the parking brake light on can cause a lot of problems. It can make your brakes work less effectively, create too much heat, wear out the brake parts unevenly, damage the parking brake system, and even put you in danger during emergencies.
