Why is the parking brake light staying on in my Toyota?

In most Toyota models, a parking brake light that remains on typically means the brake is still engaged or there is a fault in the braking system. Start by confirming the parking brake is fully released, then check fluid levels and basic sensors. If the light persists, have the system diagnosed promptly by a qualified technician.

What the light typically signals

The parking brake light can come on for several reasons, ranging from a simple user error to a more serious mechanical or electrical fault. Understanding the difference helps you decide whether you can address it at home or need professional service.

1. Parking brake not fully released: On vehicles with a traditional lever, the brake may still be engaged; on electronic parking brake (EPB) systems, the switch or motor may not have released properly. Ensure the brake is fully disengaged and try re-releasing according to your owner's manual.


2. Low brake fluid or reservoir sensor issue: A low fluid level can trigger the brake warning light even if the parking brake is released. Check the master cylinder reservoir and top up with the correct DOT brake fluid if needed, while inspecting for leaks.


3. Brake system leak or reduced hydraulic pressure: Leaks in brake lines, calipers, or the master cylinder can cause the warning light to come on. If you notice dampness, a soft brake pedal, or reduced braking performance, stop driving and seek immediate service.


4. Faulty parking brake sensor or switch: Electronic parking brakes rely on sensors and a control module. A faulty sensor, switch, or EPB actuator can illuminate the light even when the brake is released.


5. ABS/ESC or related system faults: Some vehicles illuminate the brake warning light if there are faults in the ABS/ESC (electronic stability control) system or wheel speed sensors. A diagnostic scan is often required to distinguish this from a simple brake issue.


6. Sticking or binding parking brake components: A seized cable, caliper, or other hardware can keep drag on a wheel, causing the light to stay on and sometimes generating heat or unusual pedal feel.

If any of these conditions apply, address them carefully. A persistent light can indicate a safety-critical issue, so prioritize a safe stop and mechanical check if you’re unsure.

What a mechanic will check during diagnosis

When the light remains after basic checks, a professional will perform a thorough brake system diagnostic. This often includes both mechanical and electronic evaluations to pinpoint the cause and ensure safe operation of the vehicle.

1. Brake fluid level and integrity: Inspect the reservoir, confirm adequate fluid level, and check for leaks in hoses, lines, and the master cylinder. Replace or repair as needed.


2. Parking brake mechanism: For EPB systems, verify the motor, switch, wiring, and control module function; for cable-driven brakes, inspect cables, clevises, and caliper release mechanisms for binding or damage.


3. Electronic controls and sensors: Retrieve stored and current codes with an OBD-II scanner capable of ABS/ESP diagnostics; check the EPB control unit if equipped.


4. ABS/ESC system and wheel speed sensors: Test sensor data and wiring to rule out faults that could trigger the brake warning light.


5. Brake pads, rotors, and hydraulic performance: Assess wear and integrity, verify no sticking calipers, and ensure proper hydraulic pressure through a system bleed if required.


6. Road test and functional check: Safely evaluate brake release, pedal feel, and any unusual dragging or overheating symptoms under controlled conditions.

Professional diagnosis helps determine whether the issue is mechanical, sensor-based, or related to the ABS/ESC system, and guides the appropriate fix.

Summary

A parking brake light staying on in a Toyota is usually a sign that the brake is still engaged or that there is a fault in the braking system—ranging from a simple lever release issue to leaks, sensor faults, or ABS/ESC problems. Start with a careful at-home check: confirm full release, inspect brake fluid, and look for leaks or sticking components. If the light persists, seek prompt professional diagnosis to prevent reduced braking performance and ensure your safety on the road.

What would cause the parking brake light to stay 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 you reset the parking brake on a Toyota?

To reset the electronic parking brake (EPB) on a Toyota, first try a simple restart of the vehicle. If that doesn't work, use the manual procedure of turning the ignition on, pressing the brake pedal, and cycling the EPB switch three times up and three times down, holding it up on the final push. If the problem persists, a manual recalibration, disconnecting the battery, or using a diagnostic scan tool may be necessary. 
This video demonstrates how to reset the EPB warning light by restarting the car: 58sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Sep 18, 2024
1. Simple restart

• Turn the car completely off.
• Wait for a few minutes.
• Restart the engine and check if the warning light has cleared. 

2. Manual recalibration

• Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (don't start the engine). 
• Press and hold the brake pedal. 
• Press the EPB switch up three times, then press it down three times. 
• On the third press of the switch up, hold it until the EPB motor sound is audible and the warning light flashes, indicating it is engaging. 
• Release the switch and the pedal. The parking brake should be reset. 

This video demonstrates how to recalibrate the EPB using the manual procedure: 46sS&E's GarageYouTube · Sep 28, 2021
3. Disconnect the battery 

• Turn the car off.
• Open the hood and locate the battery.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Reconnect the terminal and see if the error has been cleared. 

4. Use a diagnostic scan tool 

• Plug an OBD-II scanner into the vehicle's diagnostic port. 
• Use the tool to read the error codes, which may pinpoint the specific issue. 
• Many advanced scanners have an "EPB Reset" function that can perform the reset and calibration after the fault has been addressed. 

This video explains how to use a diagnostic scan tool to reset the EPB: 1mJaydiyrepairguy YouTube · Apr 18, 2024
5. Inspect for physical issues

• Check that the parking brake is not stuck due to dirt or debris. 
• Ensure the brake fluid reservoir is full, as low fluid can sometimes trigger the warning light. 
• Check the brake pads for excessive wear; worn pads can also trigger the warning. 

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.

How do I clear my parking brake light?

To turn off the parking brake light, first ensure the parking brake is completely disengaged. If the light remains on, check that the brake fluid is at the correct level. If the light still won't turn off, there may be a problem with the parking brake switch, brake fluid level sensor, or another part of the braking system, which requires professional inspection.
 
This video demonstrates how to engage and disengage the electronic parking brake: 1mQuiteAlrightYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
Basic checks

• Disengage the parking brake: Make sure the parking brake lever is fully lowered or the electronic parking brake button is fully pressed. For electronic systems, you may need to press the brake pedal while pushing the button to disengage it. 
• Check brake fluid: Turn off the engine and open the hood to check the brake fluid reservoir. If the fluid is low, add the correct type of brake fluid to the fill line. 
• Drive the car: After adding fluid, start driving and gently pump the brakes a few times; this may reset the light. 

You can watch this video to learn how to check and add brake fluid: 1mTry This DIYYouTube · Jun 25, 2022
Troubleshooting if the light stays on
If the light remains on after performing the basic checks, one of the following components may be the cause: 

• Faulty parking brake switch: This switch is often located under the parking brake lever or pedal. Wiggle the handle or pedal; if the light flickers on and off, the switch is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. 
• Bad brake fluid level sensor: A faulty sensor can incorrectly trigger the light even if the fluid level is correct. You can test this by unplugging the sensor to see if the light goes off, but it's best to have a mechanic inspect it. 
• Wiring issues: Loose or damaged wires connected to the parking brake switch or brake fluid sensor can cause the light to stay on. 
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) malfunction: Sometimes, a problem with the overall braking system, including ABS, can cause the parking brake light to stay on, especially if the ABS light is also on. 

This video explains what to do if the parking brake light stays on: 58sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Oct 16, 2024
When to see a mechanic
If you have checked the basic solutions and the light is still on, the problem is likely more complex. It is safest to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue, as it could be a sign of a more serious brake system problem.