Symptoms
- Brake warning light lit on the dash
- Pedal feels firm and stops the car normally
- No unusual noises or pulling while braking
Likely causes
- CommonParking brake not fully releasedEven a slightly engaged parking brake can trigger the light without affecting pedal feel much.
- CommonLow brake fluid from normal pad wearAs pads wear, fluid level drops slightly and can trigger a low-fluid sensor before the pedal feel changes.
- PossibleWorn brake pad triggering a wear sensorSome systems use the same warning light for pad wear as for fluid level.
- Less commonFaulty brake fluid level sensorThe float or sensor itself can fail and give a false reading.
What to do
- Confirm the parking brake is completely released.
- Check the brake fluid reservoir level against the min/max lines.
- Check brake pad thickness if visible, since wear sensors can trigger this light too.
- Top off fluid if it's low, using the correct DOT-rated type.
- Drive a short distance and see if the light clears once the parking brake is confirmed off.
- Have a mechanic check pad wear and the fluid level sensor if the light stays on with fluid full and parking brake released.
Tools and parts
Brake fluid, DOT rating from owner's manualSearch: “DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid for your car”
When to call a pro
See a mechanic if the light stays on after confirming the parking brake is off and fluid is full, since a pad or sensor issue may need attention.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.