What is the first thing you should check if your brake dashboard light is on?
If your brake dashboard light is illuminated, it's a sign that there may be an issue with your vehicle's braking system. The first thing you should do is check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir. This is a quick and easy step that can help identify the root cause of the problem.
Checking the Brake Fluid Level
The brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" markings on the reservoir. If the fluid level is low, it could indicate a leak in the brake system. Top up the fluid to the correct level using the recommended brake fluid type for your vehicle.
Other Potential Causes
If the brake fluid level is normal, there are a few other potential causes for the brake dashboard light to be on:
- Worn brake pads or shoes: The brake pads or shoes may need to be replaced due to wear and tear.
- Brake system problem: There could be an issue with the brake calipers, brake lines, or other components in the braking system.
- Faulty brake fluid sensor: The sensor that monitors the brake fluid level may be malfunctioning, causing the dashboard light to illuminate.
- Parking brake issue: If the parking brake is not fully released, it can trigger the brake dashboard light.
If the brake fluid level is normal and the dashboard light remains on, it's best to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the underlying issue.
Can I drive my car with the brake warning light on?
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.
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.
Why is my brake light on but brakes work fine?
Usually a brake light being on means your brakes are extremely close to their life cycle and need to be replace. Just behind the friction material there are 2 poles the stick out farther than the rest of the pad. Over time of braking, these poles become exposed and eventually make contact with the rotor.
What should you do if the brake system warning comes on?
Drive the car to a parking area or onto the shoulder of the road as safely as possible and gradually press the brake pedal to bring your vehicle to a stop. Once safely stopped and out of the traffic flow, make arrangements to transport the vehicle to your favorite repair shop.
What are the two things that could be wrong if the brake light is on?
The most common reasons your brake light is on: The Parking Brake is engaged. Brake Fluid is low or leaking. Worn brake pads.
Can I drive my car if the brake light is on?
If you've just started your car and notice that the brake system warning light is on, don't run the risk of driving the vehicle. First, check to make sure that the parking brake is completely disengaged. Some cars have a common warning light for the brake system and the parking brake.
What does it mean when the brake light comes on on the dashboard?
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.
When the brake warning light stays on what should you check first?
To check it, first, find the master cylinder (also called brake fluid reservoir) (pictured below). It is usually white or yellow plastic and located on the driver's side. Then, check the fluid level. There should be minimum and maximum markings on the side of the reservoir to show the optimal range of fluid.
Can I drive with brake light on dashboard?
It's best to drive your vehicle as little as possible when the brake warning light comes on and contact a brake specialist to diagnose and repair the issue. If you can't drive the car to the repair shop, a mobile brake repair service can come to you to diagnose and repair the issue.
How to know if brake fluid is low?
Brake Lights - If you see the letters ABS pop up on your instrument cluster, chances are you're low on brake fluid. This light lets you know that there's an issue with your anti-lock braking system. If the parking brake is disengaged but you still see the word BRAKE, that's another sign that your fluid levels are low.
