Seeing your brake light illuminated on the dashboard can be alarming. Your brake system is one of the most crucial components of your vehicle, directly affecting your safety and the safety of others on the road. So, whether you’re an experienced driver in Pasadena or relatively new to the road, it’s essential to understand what this warning light means and how to address it. Read on to discover why your brake light might be on, what it means when it flickers, and how to fix this issue before it becomes a considerable safety risk.
What Causes the Brake Light on the Dash To Stay On?
The brake light on your dashboard is part of your vehicle’s warning system, designed to alert you to potential issues with your braking system. When this light stays on, it often indicates that something isn’t functioning as it should.
Low hydraulic fluid is a common reason why your brake light might come on. If you notice that your brake warning light comes on when you press the brake pedal, your brake fluid is likely extremely low in the master cylinder. The brake master cylinder contains a sensor that monitors the brake fluid level. When the fluid level falls below optimal, this sensor activates the warning light to alert you that the hydraulic system requires urgent attention.
Low brake fluid levels are a serious concern you should never take lightly. They interfere with your brakes’ ability to function correctly, which can be hazardous to yourself, your passengers, and other road users when your vehicle is in motion.
Your vehicle’s brake light may also turn on if your parking brake is engaged. Most vehicles today have a built-in sensor that monitors whether the parking brake is activated. Even if the parking brake is slightly engaged, it can still trigger the brake light to switch on. While driving with your parking brake engaged might not seem like a big deal, it can cause significant damage to your brakes. Doing so creates excess friction, which can cause the brakes to overheat and the brake pads to wear and tear.
Another reason your brake light may suddenly switch on is a malfunction in the anti-lock braking system (ABS). In many vehicles, the brake light is connected to the ABS. If there’s an issue with the ABS, such as a malfunctioning sensor or a problem with the ABS module, the brake light can illuminate.
Why Is My Brake Light Flashing?
A flashing brake light is usually more urgent than a brake light that stays on continuously. It gets your attention and warns you of potentially severe problems with your braking system. In some vehicles, the brake light will flash if the brake fluid level is critically low. This is an urgent warning to top up your brake fluid or check for leaks. As mentioned before, driving with low brake fluid can lead to brake failure. So, if you suspect your brake warning light is flickering due to low fluid levels, you should refrain from driving your vehicle until you address this issue.
Another common reason your brake lights may flicker is a failure or malfunction in the ABS. In cases like these, the flickering of the brake lights may be accompanied by other warning lights, such as the ABS light or the traction control light. If this happens, you must have your vehicle inspected immediately, as driving without a properly functioning ABS can be dangerous.
Likewise, your brake lights might start to flicker to alert you if you accidentally engage the emergency brakes when driving. Doing so can cause severe damage to your brakes if not addressed immediately, so be sure to release the emergency brake as soon as possible.
Drawing from our extensive experience at Monument Chevrolet, we’ve seen what happens when warning signs are left to fester. Minor issues turn into big, costly fixes. We strongly suggest you bring your automobile for a comprehensive check when you see odd cautionary signal patterns. Our service team is excellent at finding the precise cause of flashing brake lights and performing the necessary fixes to keep you safe on the road.
How to Turn Off the Brake Light on Your Dashboard
There are several fixes you can perform to troubleshoot a flickering brake light or turn it off. The first thing you should do once you notice that your brake light is on is check your parking brakes. If they are engaged, releasing them might fix the issue and turn off your brake warning lights.
If your brake lights stay on even after you’ve disengaged the parking brakes, check the brake fluid level in the braking system. If the brake fluid level is low, carefully add the appropriate type of brake fluid to the reservoir. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct fluid type. Once topped off, the brake light should turn off. If it doesn’t, there may be a leak or another issue that needs to be addressed by a knowledgeable mechanic.
If you’ve fully disengaged the parking brakes and there doesn’t seem to be a leak in your vehicle’s hydraulic system, the issue is likely in the ABS. Resetting your ABS might fix the problem. You can do so by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it. Even so, it’s always best to consult your vehicle’s manual or a professional mechanic for the proper procedure.
It’s worth noting that flashing brake lights can indicate more severe issues beyond those discussed here. Therefore, if your brake warning light continues to stay on or flicker after you’ve attempted all the fixes, consider getting it checked by a professional.
Ensure Your Safety with Monument Chevrolet
If that brake warning light on your dashboard catches your eye, remember it’s not just a diminutive glow but a crucial signal for your road safety. Our skilled technicians our Chevy service center in Pasadena, Texas, are ready to identify and rectify any problems with your brake system. We choose ACDelco Gold or GM original equipment parts because they’re made specifically for your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Schedule a service appointment with us today, and our expert team will promptly address any issues to get you back on the roads of Houston in no time. Or if you’re in the market for used suvs for sale, we’ve got you covered as well!
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