Your car's brakes are some of the essential safety features that need to be fully functional at all times. As such, you need to take a brake warning light on your dashboard very seriously. In most cases, a brake warning light may mean replacing the brakes. However, sometimes it may indicate a leaking brake fluid, which is an emergency that needs immediate attention.
Most modern vehicles have three types of brake warning lights; one that indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), one that shows the parking brake is engaged, and finally one for the brakes themselves, which is the most serious one. Below are 3 of the reasons why your brake warning light may turn on.
Low/Leaking Brake Fluid
The brakes need enough brake fluid to operate well. When the brake fluid drops below the required level, a sensor in the master cylinder triggers the brake light on the dashboard to turn on. If your brake fluid has been leaking for a while, the brake fluid reservoir will be nearly empty. A low brake fluid level could also be a sign of worn-out brake pads. Ensure you take your vehicle to a reputable service center for inspection to help determine where the fluid is leaking from. A leaking brake fluid is a serious safety hazard.
A Malfunctioning Speed Sensor
A speed sensor reads the speed at which your car tires rotate and relays the information to the ABC control module. A faulty speed sensor will cause the ABS lights to come on and the anti-locking braking system to fail. As such, you may not be able to drive your car safely.
Worn-Out Brake Pads
When you step on the brake pedal, the brake pads press the disc rotors, causing friction to slow down your car. A problem with the brake pad will cause the brake warning lights to illuminate. If you suspect a problem with your brake pads, take your vehicle to a mechanic to replace them for you before your brakes stop working altogether.
For safe driving, it's important to take note of all the lights illuminating your dashboard. If you notice a brake warning light, we invite you to bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop today! A brake warning light can be an indication of something more serious.