Bad Switch: One common reason for the Parking Brake light to stay on is a failing or failed switch . This can be checked easily by jiggling the handle after it is down. If the light turns off (or turns off and then back on), the switch is the most likely culprit and will need to be replaced.
What does it mean when your parking brake light stays on?
This light is the parking brake warning light . ... It illuminates to show that the parking brake or emergency brake is engaged and must be released before driving. If it remains lit after the parking brake is released or if it turns on and off intermittently while you're driving, it means you need to add brake fluid.
How do you get a parking brake light off?
- Handle Check. The parking brake light may remain on if you have not fully lowered the handle. ...
- Add Brake Fluid. ...
- Repair brake fluid leaks. ...
- Parking Brake Switch Repair. ...
- Repair of Faulty Brake Sensors. ...
- Anti-lock Brake System Repair.
How do you fix a brake light that stays on?
- Check the brake light switch for damage.
- Replace blown fuses.
- Install a new brake light switch.
- Keep your brake pedal bumper functional.
- Replace burnt-out bulbs.
- Detach the car battery.
- Keep your brake pedal dirt-free.
- Ensure the brake pedal pushes the switch correctly.
How do I reset my parking brake?
Press and hold the accelerator pedal and place the EPB switch to the RELEASE (downward) position. Continue to hold the accelerator pedal and EPB. Set the ignition to OFF, then set the ignition to ON within 5 seconds. Continue to hold the accelerator pedal and the EPB switch.
What causes the red brake light to come on?
A red light that flashes on and off could signal low/almost empty brake fluid , but also a serious issue with the brake's hydraulic system. If the light comes on and stays on, you could end up with a potentially catastrophic (and costly) brake failure.
How long can you drive with brake light on?
It is safe to drive with this light on for a short amount of time . As mentioned earlier, the light will come on when you still have some brake pad material left, but if you wait too long and continue driving, you will run out of material and damage the rotors.
Can you drive with brake light on?
Driving with the Brake Warning Light on should not be done as this is dangerous. It means your brakes are not working properly and need to be repaired as soon as possible.
How do I reset my brake light?
Disconnect the positive cable from the car battery, and then hold down on the brake pedal to drain the car's electrical system. This will reset the car's central computer. Plug the positive cable back to restore the power. Even if this doesn't totally reset the light, it should stay off for up to 1 week.
Can worn brake pads cause brake light to come on?
The most likely cause of the brake warning light is that the brake fluid level has got a little low . ... If your brake pads have become significantly worn, this may trigger the light. Some cars do have a separate warning light for worn brake pads, which looks like this.
Where is the parking brake sensor?
Locate your parking brake switch. If you have a foot style parking brake, the switch is under the dash mounted to or behind the lever. If you have a hand style parking brake, the switch is mounted under the center console assembly on or below the lever .
Why won't my parking brake engaged?
Broken/Detached/Frayed Cable: A broken, detached or frayed parking brake cable could be causing the malfunction . ... Loose Cable: If you have a brake with a nut attached, ensure that the nut hasn't come loose. Loosing of nut can lead to slack in the cable that can cause it not to engage.
What is EPB reset?
EPB Reset Resets the cable if the Emergency release cable has been activated . EPB Un-jam Allows the EPB to be un-jammed when the vehicle has entered a state where the brakes screech when applying the Parking Brake, the rear brakes squeak or rub when the vehicle is moving or there is evidence of shoe-drag.
What are the signs of low brake fluid?
- Brake warning light has illuminated.
- Brake fluid appears low, discolored, or dirty.
- Brake pedal feels spongy.
- Car takes longer to brake than normal.
What is the most likely cause of brake lights staying on?
The most likely cause for the brake lights to stay on is the brake light switch that is attached closed . You can disconnect the brake light switch plug from the brake light pedal to see if the lights turn off.
Can I just add brake fluid?
Can You Just Add Brake Fluid to Your Car? Simply said, yes . Although you can take your car to an experienced mechanic to do it for you, this is something you can do on your own without too much hassle.
