With so many dashboard lights, it’s sometimes difficult for vehicle owners to know which light means what. When it comes to your car’s brake warning light, if it’s on, you need to bring it in to have your braking system checked out. If there is a problem with the brakes, it may be unsafe for you and your passengers. This blog post discusses what causes the brake warning light to come on and what you should do about it if it is on.
When it comes to your car’s braking system, there are usually three separate lights that are used to communicate to you. When you engage the parking brake, a “red” light will come on to let you know the system is working. To turn off this light, you have to disengage the parking light before you begin to drive. Your vehicle is also equipped with an anti-lock braking system. When this light comes on, it is usually “yellow” in color. The third brake light is the warning brake light. This light is “red” in color and is the first indication there could be a serious problem with the brakes. If this light comes on while you are driving, safely pull to the side of the road and call for a tow truck. If the light comes on and stays on when you start the car, you will also want to call for a tow.
Note: For cars with only one brake warning light, first make sure the parking brake isn’t engaged before calling for a tow.
What causes the brake warning light to come on?
The brake warning light is triggered by a low level of brake fluid in your braking system. This can happen because of the following:
- The brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced. As the brake pads wear out, the braking system may begin to use up fluid. When you have a brake job done, you should check the level of brake fluid and replace it as needed. Of course, when you bring your vehicle to our brake repair shop in Byram, New Jersey, we will check your brake fluid level and add any, if necessary. Check the cap of your brake fluid reservoir or your vehicle owner’s manual for the type of brake fluid to use.
- The braking system is losing fluid from a leak. A leak in the braking system is serious. When there is no or very low brake fluid in the system, you won’t be able to stop your car. Our certified technicians will locate and repair the brake fluid leak.
If the brake warning light is not on but you aren’t sure if your brakes are working properly, we can check them out for you. Click here to read about some symptoms you may need brake repair. Remember, if the brake light does come on, have your vehicle towed to our shop in Byram, NJ. Click here to make an appointment to have your brakes checked or repaired at Geller’s Automotive.
