Why is my car saying my parking brake is on?

In most cases, that warning simply means the parking brake is engaged, but it can also indicate a fault in the parking brake system, its sensor, or a related brake issue. If the light remains on while you’re driving or you can’t release the brake, stop safely and investigate or have the vehicle inspected.

What the warning can mean

This light is not always a single, simple signal. It can indicate either a normal condition (the brake is on or auto‑hold is active) or a fault in the parking brake system. Vehicles with electronic parking brakes (EPB) or auto‑hold features may illuminate the light for a fault in the system, a sensor issue, or when the brakes are overheating or low on fluid. Different makes use slightly different symbols, so it helps to check your owner’s manual for the exact meaning tied to your model.

Common causes

The following situations cover the most frequent reasons the parking brake light might come on or stay on. They range from simple to more complex mechanical or electrical issues.

• The parking brake is not fully released or is still engaged.


• An electronic parking brake (EPB) switch or lever fault causes the system to stay active or fail to disengage.


• Auto Hold or hill-start assist systems trigger the light if they’re malfunctioning or in a fault state.


• Low brake fluid, a fluid leak, or other hydraulic issues in the braking system can trigger a brake warning light.


• Worn brake pads or a sticking caliper can cause abnormal braking behavior and illuminate the warning.


• An electrical fault, such as a blown fuse, faulty brake sensor, or problematic ABS module, can trigger the light.


• A temporary condition like very high brake temperatures after heavy braking may cause the light to appear on some vehicles.

When the light is accompanied by a rising pedal feel, a pulling sensation, or a burning smell, treat it as a serious issue and stop as soon as it is safe.

What to check safely

If you are in a safe location and it’s appropriate to check, perform these quick checks to determine whether the light is due to a simple release issue or something more serious.

1. Confirm the parking brake is fully released. For a mechanical lever, ensure it’s completely down; for an electronic brake, press the brake pedal and re‑engage then release the EPB according to your vehicle’s procedure.


2. Check the brake fluid level and look for visible leaks near the master cylinder and hoses. If the level is low, there may be a leak that needs professional attention.


3. Inspect for any obvious dragging sensations or unusually warm wheels, which can indicate a sticking caliper or seized brake components.


4. Look for other warning lights on the dash (ABS, traction control, or fluid warnings) that might point to a related brake system problem.


5. If you have access to an OBD‑II scanner, read any codes related to braking, EPB, or ABS to identify a fault.

These checks can help you decide whether you can continue driving cautiously to a repair shop or if it’s safer to stop and call for assistance.

When to seek professional help

If the light stays on after you’ve released the brake, you notice a soft or spongy brake pedal, or you smell burning brakes, you should not drive far. A qualified technician can diagnose the issue by inspecting the EPB mechanism, hydraulic lines, sensor circuits, and related components, then perform necessary repairs such as resetting the EPB, replacing faulty sensors, topping up or repairing brake fluid, or addressing leaks.

What a mechanic will check

To restore safe braking, a professional may perform several checks and tasks. Here are common steps they may take.

• Test and recalibrate the electronic parking brake system, including the switch, actuator, and control module.


• Inspect and bleed the brake hydraulic system if fluid is low or air is present in the lines.


• Inspect brake pads, rotors, calipers, and bleeder screws for wear or sticking components.


• Check associated sensor wiring, fuses, and the ABS control module for faults.


• Review fault codes with a diagnostic scanner and perform necessary repairs or part replacements.

After service, the technician will typically reset warnings and verify that the light no longer appears during normal driving conditions.

Summary

The parking brake light can indicate a simple release issue, an electronic brake system fault, or a broader braking system problem. Start with a quick check to ensure the brake is released and the fluid levels are adequate. If the light persists, or you notice performance issues, seek professional assessment promptly to avoid unsafe driving conditions.

How to fix parking brake warning light?

To fix a parking brake warning light, first ensure the brake is fully disengaged. Next, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir and top it off if it's low, as this is a common cause. If the light persists, you may have a faulty brake fluid sensor, a bad parking brake switch, or an electrical issue like a bad fuse or wiring problem. For electronic parking brakes, a reset by disconnecting the battery may also work, but for persistent issues, a mechanic should perform further diagnostics.
 
This video explains common reasons for a parking brake light to stay on and how to fix them: 1mDashboard warning lights YouTube · Feb 29, 2024
Initial checks

1. Disengage the parking brake: Make sure the parking brake is completely released, as the light will stay on if it's still partially engaged. 
2. Check the brake fluid: Open the hood and find the brake fluid reservoir. The light can indicate low fluid, so check the level against the "min" and "max" lines. If it's low, add the correct type of brake fluid for your vehicle until it reaches the "max" line. 
3. Check for leaks: Look for any signs of brake fluid leaks under the car, especially around the wheels. 

Next steps

• Reset the system: If your vehicle has an electric parking brake, try disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery for a few minutes to reset the system. Reconnect it and see if the light turns off. 
• Inspect the parking brake switch: The switch that detects if the parking brake is on or off can fail. You can check if this is the problem by using a multimeter to test the switch, or by sometimes being able to manually adjust or clean the switch itself, especially if it's an older system, says this YouTube video and Reddit users. 
• Check the brake fluid sensor: The sensor at the bottom of the reservoir can be faulty. Try unplugging it to see if the light turns off. If it does, the sensor needs to be replaced, according to this wikiHow article and this YouTube video. 
• Check the fuse: Look for a fuse related to the parking brake or brake system in your vehicle's fuse box, which is often located under the dashboard or in the engine bay. Check the fuse diagram on the box lid to find the correct fuse, and replace it if it has blown, as explained in this YouTube video. 

This video shows how to check and fix issues with a parking brake switch: 56sTim's GarageYouTube · Aug 23, 2014
When to see a mechanic

• If the light is still on after trying the steps above, a professional diagnosis is recommended. 
• If both the parking brake light and the ABS light are on, a diagnostic scan tool is needed to retrieve error codes, which can pinpoint the issue, notes this YouTube video. 
• If the issue is related to the electronic parking brake, a mechanic can check the actuator motor and other related components. 
• If the brake warning light comes on while driving, pull over to a safe area and arrange to have the vehicle towed to a repair shop. 

Why does my car say the parking brake is on when it isn't?

The most likely reason your car's parking brake light is on is a faulty parking brake switch, or low brake fluid level. Other causes include a parking brake cable that is stuck or misadjusted, or, in newer cars, an issue with the electronic parking brake system. You should also check if your brake fluid is low, as this can also trigger the warning light. 
Possible causes 
This video explains some of the causes for the parking brake light being on: 48sMore AutomotiveYouTube · Jun 23, 2025

• Faulty or stuck switch: There is a switch that engages when the parking brake is applied. This switch can become stuck, misaligned, or fail, causing the light to stay on even when the brake is off. This is especially common with handbrake levers. 
• Low brake fluid: As brake pads wear down, the brake fluid level in the reservoir can drop. A low fluid level can trigger the brake warning light. 
• Stuck parking brake cable: The cable connecting the parking brake lever to the brakes can become rusted, stretched, or otherwise compromised, preventing the brake from fully disengaging. 
• Electronic parking brake (EPB) issue: If your car has an electronic parking brake, the system can malfunction due to a weak battery, a faulty actuator, or other electronic issues. 

What to do

1. Check your brake fluid: Open the hood and check the brake fluid reservoir. If the level is low, this could be the problem. Note that low fluid can also indicate worn brake pads or a leak, so it's important to have it checked by a professional. 
2. Verify the parking brake is fully released: Make sure the parking brake handle or pedal is all the way down. You can try wiggling the lever to see if it clicks into the "off" position. 
3. Inspect the brake pedal switch: For a car with a foot-pedal parking brake, a switch under the dash might have popped out of place. You may be able to see and re-seat it by looking under the dashboard near the pedal. 
4. Consult a professional: If the above steps don't solve the problem, it's best to take your car to a mechanic. They can properly diagnose the issue, which may involve checking the parking brake cables, the parking brake switch, or the electronic parking brake system. 

Can I drive my car if the parking brake light is on?

Is It Safe to Drive When the Emergency Brake Light Is On? Driving with the emergency brake light on can be dangerous, especially if it's caused by low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a brake problem.

What does it mean if my parking brake light is on?

Your parking brake light is on due to a number of issues, most commonly that the parking brake isn't fully disengaged, but also possibly low brake fluid, a faulty brake light switch, or problems with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). It is crucial to pull over in a safe location and ensure the parking brake is completely off. If the light remains on after you've released the brake, check your brake fluid level and do not drive the car if the issue persists, as it could indicate a serious brake system problem.
 
This video explains the common causes of a parking brake light and how to diagnose the issue: 32sEnjoyWheelsYouTube · Jul 16, 2023
Immediate steps to take

1. Pull over safely: Find a safe spot to stop your vehicle immediately. 
2. Ensure the parking brake is off: Fully release the parking brake lever, pedal, or electronic switch. 
3. Check for a faulty switch: If the light stays on, the switch that detects the parking brake's position may be faulty. 
4. Check brake fluid: The light can also indicate low brake fluid. Check your owner's manual for the correct type and check the level in the master cylinder reservoir. Add fluid if needed, but be aware that low fluid can signal a leak, says wikiHow, Honda of Turnersville, and this YouTube video. 

Other potential causes

• Anti-lock brake system (ABS) malfunction: Issues with the ABS can trigger the brake warning light. 
• Faulty brake light switch: The switch that activates when you press the brake pedal can become worn or damaged over time. 
• Worn brake cables: Over time, parking brake cables can stretch or fray, preventing the brake from being fully released. 
• Worn brake pads or sensors: Some systems have sensors that trigger the light when brake pads are worn. 

This video explains how to check and add brake fluid to your vehicle: 1mTry This DIYYouTube · Jun 25, 2022
When to see a professional

• If the light remains on after checking the parking brake and brake fluid level, it's best to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle. 
• Do not continue to drive the car if the light stays on, as this could be a sign of a more serious problem that could lead to a loss of braking power or damage to other components.