Why does my Honda HRV say brake system problem?

If your Honda HR-V shows a “Brake System Problem” message, it usually means there is either a low brake fluid level or a fault somewhere in the braking system or its electronic controls. This is a safety-critical alert and should be treated with urgency.

Understanding what triggers the warning

The Brake System Problem warning on many HR-V models can light up for a range of issues, from something as simple as a low fluid level to more complex faults in the hydraulic or electronic braking system. Because brakes involve both hydraulics and electronics, a warning can stem from multiple sources and may or may not be immediately obvious from a normal driving feel.

Common causes

Below are the typical culprits that can trip the Brake System Problem warning. If you notice any of these, plan service as soon as possible.

• Low brake fluid level in the reservoir, often caused by worn brake pads or minor leaks


• Leakage in brake lines, hoses, calipers, or the master cylinder


• Faulty brake master cylinder or hydraulic pump, which can impair pressure


• Faulty wheel speed sensors or faults in the ABS/vehicle stability control system


• Electrical sensor or connector issues within the brake control module


• Parking brake not fully released or a faulty brake light switch causing misreads

In all cases, a professional inspection is needed to determine the exact cause and to ensure safe braking performance.

What to do right now

Before driving again, take these cautionary steps to assess safety and gather information for a technician. The goal is to avoid a brake failure or an unexpected stop while on the road.

• Safely pull over and park in a secure location. Turn on hazard lights so other drivers can see you.


• Confirm the parking brake is fully released and not engaged.


• Check the brake fluid level on the reservoir. If it is low, top up with the correct type of brake fluid (consult the owner’s manual) and avoid mixing fluids. Do not drive long distances with low fluid without inspection.


• Look for signs of brake fluid leaks under the vehicle or around the brake lines and calipers.


• Notice any abnormal pedal feel (soft or sinking pedal) or unusual sounds (squealing, grinding) and any other warning lights such as ABS or traction control.


• If the pedal feels normal and the car stops reliably, still arrange a service appointment promptly; if the pedal is soft or the car pulls to one side, do not continue driving.

These steps help you stay safe and provide useful information to a technician diagnosing the problem.

When to seek immediate help

Brake issues can quickly become dangerous. If you experience a soft or disappearing brake pedal, extended stopping distances, the car pulling violently to one side, or you cannot stop the vehicle safely, stop and seek roadside assistance or call emergency services. Do not attempt long drives to a dealership with the warning active.

What to expect at the dealership or repair shop

When you bring your HR-V in, a technician will typically perform a diagnostic scan to pull any stored ABS/BCM (brake control module) codes, inspect the brake fluid level and condition, check for leaks, test the hydraulic system for pressure, and evaluate brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Depending on the findings, repairs may include topping or replacing brake fluid, repairing leaks, replacing worn pads or faulty components, or addressing electrical sensor or control-module faults. In some cases, software updates or recalibration of the ABS/ESC system may be required.

Summary

A “Brake System Problem” warning on a Honda HR-V is a safety alert that can result from low brake fluid, leaks, worn components, or faults in the brake-by-wire or ABS systems. Treat it as urgent: pull over safely, check fluid and for leaks, and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible. Prompt diagnosis protects you and others on the road and helps prevent brake failure.

What is the brake system alert on a Honda HRV?

Brake System Indicator
This warning light may indicate that brake fluid is low or that there's a problem with the braking system. Check pedal pressure by lightly pressing down on the brake pedal.

Why does my Honda HR-V say brake system problem?

Brake system warnings in the 2019 HR-V commonly stem from faulty wheel speed sensors or low brake fluid. Start by checking the brake fluid reservoir for proper levels and top up if needed. Inspect ABS wheel speed sensors for dirt or damage, as these affect the anti-lock braking system.

How to fix a brake system problem?

The solution is to replace worn brake pads with quality new ones and check the surface of the brake discs to ensure they are in good condition. Similarly, loss of pressure in the brake system can be due to brake fluid leaks, air in the system or problems with the master cylinder.

What does it mean when my Honda says brake system problem?

A "brake system problem" message on a Honda indicates an issue, with common causes including low brake fluid, worn brake pads, an electronic parking brake malfunction, or a problem with the ABS sensors. You should have a mechanic inspect the vehicle immediately for safety, but first check for low brake fluid.
 
Initial checks and immediate actions

• Check the brake fluid: Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood and ensure the fluid level is between the "MIN" and "MAX" lines. If it's low, it could be due to worn brake pads or a leak. 
• Check the parking brake: Make sure the electronic parking brake is fully disengaged. If the light remains on, there could be a problem with the parking brake switch or system. 
• Test the brake pedal: Lightly press the brake pedal to check for normal pressure. If it feels spongy or goes to the floor, it's a serious sign of a problem. 
• Have it inspected: Do not ignore the warning. Take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for diagnosis and repair as soon as possible, especially if the warning appears while driving. 

This video explains the reasons and ways to fix brake system warning light in Honda vehicles: 58sDmitry SapkoYouTube · Aug 11, 2024
Potential causes for the warning light

• Low brake fluid: As mentioned, this can be caused by worn brake pads or a leak in the brake lines, calipers, or master cylinder. 
• Worn brake pads: The normal wear of brake pads can cause the fluid level to drop, triggering the warning light. 
• Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) issues: A defective switch, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning servo motor can cause the "electric parking brake problem" message. 
• ABS Sensor problems: Faulty or damaged wheel speed sensors for the anti-lock braking system can trigger the warning light and may even prevent the car from starting. 
• Defective brake light switch: A malfunctioning brake light switch can cause issues with the warning light and may disable the starter interlock, preventing the car from starting. 

What to do if the light comes on

• If driving: Try to use the regenerative braking system (deceleration paddle selector) to help slow down if it's a hybrid model. Avoid using the parking brake and have the vehicle checked by a dealer immediately. 
• If the car won't start: Check the brake fluid level and inspect the parking brake. Try resetting the system by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes. If the problem persists, professional diagnosis is needed. 
• Professional diagnosis: A mechanic can use an OBD-II scanner to read specific fault codes, which will pinpoint the exact issue and guide the necessary repairs.