What is the brake system indicator on a Honda?

On Honda vehicles, the brake system indicator is a red warning light on the dashboard that signals a potential problem or a brake status you need to address. If the light is on while driving, treat it as urgent and seek inspection.

What the indicator looks like and what it means

The brake warning light is typically red and may appear as the word BRAKE or as an icon such as a circle with an exclamation mark. The exact symbol can vary by model and year, but the warning is the same: it signals a brake system issue or status that requires your attention.

• Parking brake is engaged. It lights up when the brake is applied and should go out when the brake is fully released.


• Brake fluid level is low. A low reservoir can reduce braking efficiency and should be corrected promptly.


• Brake system fault. A hydraulic leak or sensor problem in the braking system triggers the warning and needs professional inspection.

Note that Honda models also use a separate ABS indicator for the anti-lock braking system, typically amber with the letters ABS. The red brake warning light focuses on the primary braking system.

What to do if the brake system indicator comes on

1. Check the parking brake: Make sure it is fully released. If the light turns off after releasing it, the cause was the brake being engaged.


2. Check the brake fluid level: Inspect the master cylinder reservoir and top up if necessary with the correct brake fluid. Look for leaks or signs of wear in the braking system.


3. Evaluate driving conditions: If the light remains on after release and the fluid level is normal, avoid hard braking and have the system checked as soon as possible.


4. Seek professional service: If you notice a soft or spongy brake pedal, grinding noises, or the light stays on after checks, arrange service promptly or tow to a Honda technician.

Addressing the brake warning promptly helps prevent deterioration of braking performance and keeps you safe on the road.

Model variations and notices

Symbol design and triggering conditions can vary by Honda model and year. Always refer to your owner's manual for the exact symbol and the recommended actions. If in doubt, treat the indicator as a safety alert and contact a qualified technician.

Summary

The brake system indicator on a Honda is a red warning light that can signal that the parking brake is engaged, the brake fluid is low, or there is a hydraulic braking fault. If the light stays on while driving, stop and have the system inspected promptly. Regular maintenance helps ensure reliable braking and safe driving.

Can I drive with a brake system warning light?

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 does the brake system indicator mean?

The brake system warning light can indicate one of two things: the parking brake is engaged, or brake fluid level is low. In either scenario, the light is turned on by a switch somewhere in the brake system. When you engage the parking brake, the brake handle closes a switch that turns on the warning light.

Why is my brake system light on my Honda?

A brake system light on a Honda means there's an issue with the braking system that needs immediate attention. Common causes include the parking brake being engaged, low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or an electrical problem with the ABS system. To be safe, pull over and stop the car, and then check if the parking brake is disengaged and if the brake fluid level is correct.
 
Initial checks

• Parking brake: First, ensure the parking brake is fully disengaged. This is a very common reason for the light to come on. 
• Brake fluid: Next, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If it is low, it could indicate worn brake pads or a leak in the system. If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy, do not drive the vehicle further and have it inspected immediately. 

If the issue persists

• Worn brake pads: The light can also signal that your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. 
• Electrical or ABS issues: There could be an electrical problem with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) or other sensors. 

What to do next

• Seek professional help: If you have checked the parking brake and the brake fluid, and the light remains on, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. 
• Avoid driving if unsafe: Do not drive the car if the brake pedal feels soft or you notice any other unsafe braking performance. 
• Get it serviced: A professional can diagnose the exact cause, whether it's a simple fix or a more serious issue requiring a brake job or ABS module scan. 

What to do if the brake system warning light comes on?

If the brake warning light comes on, safely pull over, check for simple issues like the parking brake being engaged or low brake fluid, and do not drive the car further if there are any signs of serious problems like a sinking brake pedal. Contact a tow truck and a professional mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue immediately. 
This video explains how to check brake fluid and what to do if it's low: 1mDashboard warning lights YouTube · Feb 29, 2024
While driving

• Stay calm: Avoid sudden movements and keep a firm but steady grip on the steering wheel.
• Find a safe place to stop: Gradually brake and pull over to the side of the road or a parking lot as soon as it is safe to do so.
• Do not continue driving if the light is red: A red brake light can indicate a serious safety issue that makes driving too dangerous. 

After pulling over

• Check the parking brake: Ensure the parking brake is completely disengaged. 
• Check the brake fluid level: Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood and check the fluid level against the "min" and "max" lines. If it's low, add the correct type of fluid specified in your owner's manual, but do not assume this is the permanent fix. 
• Look for leaks: Check under the car for any signs of fluid leaks, which are often a yellowish color. 
• Pump the brake pedal: Press the brake pedal down firmly. If it sinks slowly to the floor, it could indicate a leak, and you should not drive further. 

This video demonstrates how to check brake pads and rotors for wear: 52sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Nov 4, 2022
Next steps

• Contact a tow truck: Arrange to have your vehicle transported to a repair shop. 
• Contact a mechanic: Get the vehicle inspected by a professional technician to diagnose and fix the problem. 
• Do not ignore the light: Even if you temporarily fix a low fluid level, have a professional inspect the system to identify the root cause, such as worn brake pads or a leak, to ensure your safety.