What is brake light symbol?
The brake light symbol is a visual indicator on a vehicle's dashboard that alerts the driver when there is an issue with the vehicle's braking system. This symbol is an essential safety feature that helps drivers identify potential problems and take appropriate action to ensure safe driving.
What is the Brake Light Symbol?
The brake light symbol, also known as the brake warning light or brake system warning light, is typically represented by an exclamation mark or the letters "BR" inside a circle or triangle. This symbol is designed to illuminate on the dashboard when the vehicle's brake system detects a problem, such as low brake fluid levels, a malfunctioning brake component, or an issue with the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Causes of the Brake Light Symbol
- Low Brake Fluid Level: The brake light symbol may illuminate if the brake fluid level in the master cylinder is low, indicating a potential leak or other issue with the brake system.
- Brake Pad Wear: The brake light symbol can also indicate that the brake pads are worn and need to be replaced.
- Brake System Malfunction: The brake light symbol may illuminate if there is a problem with the brake system, such as a faulty brake caliper, a malfunctioning brake booster, or an issue with the brake lines.
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Malfunction: If the vehicle's ABS system detects a problem, the brake light symbol may illuminate to alert the driver.li>
It's important to note that the brake light symbol can also illuminate briefly during the vehicle's self-diagnostic check when the engine is first started, which is normal and not an indication of a problem.
What to Do When the Brake Light Symbol Appears
If the brake light symbol illuminates while driving, it's crucial to take the following steps:
- Safely pull over: Find a safe place to pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as possible.
- Check the brake fluid level: Open the brake fluid reservoir and check the level. If it's low, add the appropriate brake fluid to the reservoir.
- Inspect the brake system: Visually inspect the brake system for any obvious signs of damage or leaks.
- Seek professional assistance: If the brake light symbol remains illuminated or the brake system appears to be malfunctioning, it's essential to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a brake system issue can be dangerous and may lead to further damage to the vehicle.
Addressing the brake light symbol promptly is crucial for maintaining the safety and reliability of your vehicle's braking system. By understanding the meaning of this symbol and taking appropriate action, you can help ensure a safe driving experience.
Can I drive my car if the brake light is on?
If the brake warning light comes on and stays on when you start your vehicle, do not begin to drive it. Turn your car off and inspect the possible causes of the issue (we will get to those soon). If the brake warning light comes on while you are in traffic or driving, don't panic.
How do I fix my brake 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.
What triggers the brake light to come on?
The brake master cylinder contains a sensor that monitors the brake fluid level. When the fluid level falls below optimal, this sensor activates the warning light to alert you that the hydraulic system requires urgent attention.
How to tell if brake fluid is low?
Brake Pedal Problems - Pay attention to how it feels when you press down on the brake pedal. If it feels firmer than usual, your brake fluid may be dirty or contaminated. If it feels soft or like you're stepping in quicksand, you're probably low on fluid.
Why is my brake symbol light on?
What does it mean if your brake warning light is 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 is the symbol for low brake fluid?
The brake fluid symbol on a car's dashboard is typically represented by an exclamation mark inside a circle, similar to an “O” with an exclamation mark in the centre. Depending on the manufacturer, this symbol is often orange or red, indicating an issue with the brake fluid level or the brake system.
Is it OK to drive with one brake light?
When one of your car's brake lights goes out, your vehicle's shift lock override may turn on. Shift lock override is designed to prevent your car from shifting when mechanical dangers are detected. By driving with a broken brake light, you could run the risk of causing serious damage to your car's transmission system.
Can I drive with the brake fluid light 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.
What is the brake warning symbol?
The symbol is a circle containing an exclamation mark, and the circle is surrounded on each side by what look like rounded brackets. In some vehicles, there may even be the word 'brake' under or next to this. The light may behave differently depending on the vehicle.
Why does my brake light stay on?
The most common cause for brake lights not turning off is a stuck brake pedal. If the pedal doesn't come back up all the way when you take your foot off, it will continue to apply some braking force and keep the lights on.
