What does it mean when the emergency brake light is flashing?
If the emergency brake light on your dashboard is flashing, it typically indicates a problem with your vehicle's parking or emergency brake system. This warning light is designed to alert you to an issue that requires immediate attention to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your car.
Understanding the Emergency Brake Light
The emergency brake light, also known as the parking brake light, is part of your vehicle's warning system. It is usually a red or amber light that illuminates when the parking or emergency brake is engaged. When the light is on, it indicates that the brake is still applied, and you should release it before driving.
However, a flashing emergency brake light is a different story. This usually signifies a problem with the brake system, such as low brake fluid, a stuck caliper, or a malfunctioning brake switch. It's important to address the issue promptly to avoid potential safety hazards and further damage to your vehicle.
Possible Causes of a Flashing Emergency Brake Light
- Low Brake Fluid: If the brake fluid level in your vehicle is low, it can cause the emergency brake light to flash. This indicates a leak in the brake system that needs to be repaired.
- Stuck Caliper: A stuck or seized brake caliper can also trigger the flashing emergency brake light. This occurs when the caliper is not releasing the brake pads from the rotor, causing the light to flash.
- Malfunctioning Brake Switch: The brake switch is responsible for detecting when the brake pedal is pressed and when the parking brake is engaged. If this switch is faulty, it can cause the emergency brake light to flash.li>
- Worn Brake Pads: Excessively worn brake pads can sometimes cause the emergency brake light to flash, as the system may detect a problem with the brake pad thickness.
If you notice the emergency brake light flashing, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the warning could lead to further damage to your braking system and potentially compromise your safety on the road.
Why is my emergency brake light blinking?
A red light that flashes on and off could signal low/almost empty brake fluid, but also a serious issue with the brake's hydraulic system. If the light comes on and stays on, you could end up with a potentially catastrophic (and costly) brake failure.
Why is the emergency light blinking in my car?
The most common reason for emergency lights staying on is an issue with the hazard light switch itself. Often, the switch may not fully disengage after being pressed, causing the lights to continue flashing. The first step is to check the hazard light switch and ensure it is completely off.
Is it safe to drive with the brake light flashing?
Drivers sometimes ask whether it's safe to drive with this brake light on. The answer is no; it should never be ignored. Brake system warning lights show that there is immediate risk and potentially a problem that compromises driver and vehicle safety.
What 2 reasons would cause your brake system warning light to come on?
Why is the brake light on while driving? 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 emergency brake light on?
Driving with the emergency brake light on can be dangerous, especially if it's caused by low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a brake problem. It might be okay to drive a short distance to a repair shop, but ignoring the warning could lead to brake failure and put your safety at risk.
Why is my automatic emergency braking system light flashing?
A blinking AEB warning light may occur under the following conditions: • When contamination or foreign material adhere to the lane camera viewing window on the windshield. When driving while it is snowing or when frost forms on the lane camera viewing window on the windshield.
