What is the P brake light on my dashboard?
Seeing the "P" brake light illuminate on your dashboard can be confusing, especially if you're unsure of its purpose. As a seasoned auto repair expert at Kevin's Autos, I’m here to explain what this light means, why it might turn on, and what steps you should take to address it.
What Does the "P" Brake Light Indicate?
The "P" brake light on your dashboard is a warning indicator related to your vehicle's parking brake system. It typically serves two main purposes:
- Parking Brake Engaged: The light reminds you that the parking brake is currently engaged. Driving with the parking brake on can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your braking system.
- Brake System Issue: In some vehicles, the "P" light may also indicate a problem with the parking brake mechanism or the overall braking system, such as low brake fluid or a malfunctioning sensor.
Why Might the "P" Brake Light Stay On?
If the "P" brake light remains illuminated even after you’ve released the parking brake, it could be due to one of the following reasons:
- Parking Brake Not Fully Released: Sometimes, the parking brake lever or pedal may not return to its fully disengaged position.
- Low Brake Fluid Levels: A drop in brake fluid can trigger the light, as it may affect the performance of your braking system.
- Faulty Parking Brake Sensor: A malfunctioning sensor might falsely indicate that the parking brake is engaged.
- Worn Brake Components: Excessive wear on brake pads or other components can sometimes cause the light to stay on.
What Should You Do If the "P" Brake Light Is On?
Here are the steps you should take if you notice the "P" brake light on your dashboard:
- Check the Parking Brake: Ensure the parking brake is fully released. If it feels stuck, avoid forcing it and consult a professional mechanic.
- Inspect Brake Fluid Levels: Open the hood and check the brake fluid reservoir. If the fluid is low, top it off with the appropriate type of brake fluid as specified in your vehicle’s manual.
- Schedule a Brake Inspection: If the light persists, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by a trusted auto repair shop to diagnose and resolve the issue.
Why Prompt Attention Is Important
Ignoring the "P" brake light can lead to serious consequences, including reduced braking performance or damage to your vehicle’s braking system. At Kevin's Autos, we recommend addressing any brake-related warning lights promptly to ensure your safety on the road.
Need Help? Visit Kevin's Autos!
If you’re in the Mountain View, CA area and need assistance with your parking brake or any other auto repair services, Kevin's Autos is here to help. With decades of experience, we provide reliable and affordable solutions to keep your car running smoothly. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the p warning light mean?
If you see a red circle with an “E” or a “P” inside, it simply means your emergency (parking) brake is engaged. If a light comes on that says BRAKE or a yellow circle with ABS inside, your braking system has a major malfunction. The yellow circle indicates the Anti-Lock Braking System has a malfunction.
What does P mean on a vehicle?
Park
P – Park: This position engages the parking pawl in the transmission. It engages a device that prevents the vehicle from rolling, even on a slope. It's critical to note that you should only use the Park position when the car is stopped, and you're about to get out.
Can I drive with brake system warning light?
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.
Why is my brake P light on?
Parking Brake Light: On the dashboard, the parking brake warning light usually appears as a circled “P” symbol. It lights up when the parking brake isn't properly released and can also indicate a worn-out parking brake mechanism or a malfunctioning sensor.
Why did my parking brake light come on?
If your brake service warning light is always on, it could be due to a need for parking brake adjustment, worn brake pads, or hydraulic issues. If your brake service warning light turns on when you hit the pedal, it could be due to hydraulic loss on one side of your vehicle or low brake fluid in the master cylinder.
How do I clear my parking brake light?
Sometimes, the right solution is usually the simplest one. The reason why your parking brake light stays on is that you didn't properly disengage the lever or handle. The parking brake lever or handle must be completely lowered to disengage the braking system, so the light indicator goes away.
Can you drive with the 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.
Can I drive with the brake pad warning light on?
Safely stop the vehicle as soon as you can and call your breakdown service. The presence of both brake and ABS warning lights could mean that your brakes have suffered a major fault. If you continue driving, you'll be risking the safety of other road users as well as yourself.
Why is my 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.
Why is there a brake symbol on my dashboard?
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.
