Why Did My Brake Warning Light Come On in My Car?

Although the check engine light is the usual suspect, your vehicle is equipped with all sorts of other indicator lamps and warning sensors. One such indicator lamp that can switch on when something’s off is your car’s brake warning light. Continue reading to learn more about brake warning lights, including why yours is illuminated and what you can do to resolve the underlying issue.

Car Brake Service Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846
Car Brake Service Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Brake Warning Lights Versus Bulb Checks

have most vehicles come with one brake warning light on the dashboard, but other vehicles may have to break warning lights on the dashboard. When you first turned the ignition in your car, all life in your dashboard should flash as a test, also referred to as a bulb check, to ensure that the electrical system is operating properly. So, do not panic if you see the break warning light appear as you start your car.

Keep in mind that if the break warning light does not illuminate when you start your car, you could have a bulb out. In this case, you would simply need to bring your car into local Indianapolis automotive repairs shop to have the break warning light bulb replaced. However, if the break warning light remains illuminated as you drive, it is important to diagnose the issue.

Top 2 Causes for an Illuminated Car Brake Warning Light

So, why is your brake warning light on right now? Well, it could be due to a variety of brake-related reasons. However, the two primary reasons why brake warning lights come on have to do with the emergency brake and brake fluid pressure.

Emergency Brake – If the emergency brake is on in your vehicle, your car sensor system will illuminate the break warning light. All you have to do to resolve this problem is to turn your emergency brake off. However, if the brake illumination continues it could be due to brake fluid and pressure problems.

Brake Fluid and Pressure – If one half of your braking system loses pressure, your brake indicator lamp will switch on. Solving this issue is more complex than turning off the emergency brake. In most cases, you’ll need to bring your car into a licensed Indianapolis mechanic to have the issue diagnosed and resolved.

Car Brake Pressure Repair is an Automotive Emergency

If your car’s braking system is low on pressure, it is not safe to drive your vehicle. If you do drive your vehicle this condition, it is important to use the emergency brake when you do park the car. Brake pressure should be equal on both sides of your braking system, so if one side loses a bit of pressure, it can lead to hazardous driving conditions. Brake pressure loss typically occurs as a result of a leak in the system or low hydraulic fluid.

Anti-Lock Braking System Lights

Most modern-day vehicles are designed with anti-lock braking systems, which appears as a “ABS” on the dashboard. If your anti-lock braking system light illuminates on your car’s dashboard, it could mean that there is an underlying problem. When this happens, you are still safe to drive your vehicle, but your anti-lock braking will not work. It is still important to bring your car into a local Indianapolis auto shop to have it repaired.

Are you looking for a skilled and qualified mechanic to help you with your automotive brake maintenance and service needs? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana at economy-friendly prices. We offer coupons and discounts, year round!

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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846