The parking brake light in your car warns you whenever the parking brake light stays on, but this light staying on can also be shown when there is another problem.
Sometimes, the parking brake light can cause problems with other parts of the car and can be more than just an annoying display. It can warn of underlying problems that should be addressed immediately.
This blog gives an overview of why the parking brake light stays on for longer than necessary and what you can do when this happens.
Topic Summary
What Does Parking Brake Light Stays On Mean?
If the parking brake light is on, this will simply mean that the parking brake is in use or there’s an underlying problem rather than the actual parking brake itself.
This might be because the parking brake handle or pedal hasn’t been fully released, but it could also be due to a failure in the brake fluid level, which may be low due to a leak or worn brake pads.
The parking brake switch itself could also be faulty, or there might be an electrical problem deeper within the vehicle, so this is a warning light in various regards.
If left, this has the potential to reduce the efficiency of your brakes, which will reduce the level of safety in your car.
Make sure that the parking brake is in use, check the level of brake fluid, and if this isn’t an immediate reoccurrence, take the vehicle to your local mechanic.
Reasons for Parking Brake Light Stays On
Some of the common causes of parking light stays on are given below:
1. Engaged Parking Brake
And the simplest explanation is often the right one. Make sure the parking brake is completely released, even a tiny bit of engagement will trigger the warning light.
2. Low Brake Fluid
The parking brake warning light can also come on if the brake fluid in the reservoir under the hood is low.
If this is the case, top off the brake fluid reservoir, but if the light comes back on after you top it off, that’s a problem you’ll need a mechanic to help you figure out.
Your brake fluid can be low if there is a leak somewhere in the system or because the brake pads themselves are worn out.
3. Faulty Parking Brake Switch
The parking brake system has a switch that turns on a light on your dashboard. If the switch sticks or misfires, the light can remain on even when the brake has been released.
4. Worn Brake Pads
Low brake fluid, for example, is detected when a growing master cylinder air bubble washes out the end of the reserve. With the brake fluid level dropping in the master cylinder, the parking brake light will appear.
And, of course, running the brakes with worn pads will wear the brake disc or drum pads sooner than expected (they’ll squeal), and by washing out the oil-based lubricants in brake parts, braking can become less effective.
5. Electrical Issues
The source of such a problem could be an electrical issue, such as a short circuit in the system or a faulty light in the dashboard.
Another challenge is to identify the cause of an illuminated service light, such as the charging system light, which indicates a need to fix a battery or alternator problem.
Electrical problems are more complicated, often requiring substitutions of components in the light switch. Those problems should be diagnosed and repaired by an expert mechanic.
Does it Effects if Parking Brake Light Stays On
Ignoring the parking brake light can lead to several problems:
Reduced Braking Efficiency: Extremely low brake fluid levels can reduce braking performance, increasing stopping distances and the risk of crashes.
Worn Brake Pads: When brake pads are too worn, braking performance is reduced, increasing stopping distances and the risk of crashes.
Further Damage: Driving like that, with your car constantly vibrating, will likely result in components of the braking system getting damaged, which means you will probably have to spend more money to get them repaired.
Safety Risks: A persistent dashboard warning light can make it harder to detect other problems, especially those that might crop up down the road.
How To Fix the Parking Brake Light Stays On
Problems in the parking brake system can decrease overall braking function, an extremely important issue that needs immediate attention and may require professional inspection by a mechanic. Steps to fix the issue are:
1. Check the Parking Brake
Make sure the parking brake is completely released. The parking brake handle or pedal can sometimes stick a tiny amount, keeping the light on.
2. Inspect and Refill Brake Fluid
Check the brake fluid level and refill it when needed, making sure to examine for leaks and solve them if there are any.
3. Examine the Parking Brake Switch
Check that the parking brake switch is mounting and operating correctly. If it’s not right, it will need to be either adjusted or replaced.
4. Replace Worn Brake Pads
If it is low, re-top it up and test again. If it is very low, replace the pads to recreate the original braking force, and then reset the fluid level.
5. Consult A Pro Car Mechanic
If none of these common problems turn out to be the cause, take the car to a mechanic. They will be able to diagnose and deal with any type of electrical problems or more complex issues that there might be in the braking system.
FAQs About Parking Brake Lights Stays On
Why Does My Parking Brake Light Stay On?
The parking brake light comes on for a number of reasons, such as the parking brake being engaged, the brake fluid being low, the problem with the parking brake switch, worn brake pads, or a braking system electrical problem.
Can I Drive with the Parking Brake Light On?
When the parking brake light is on, you can technically drive the car, but you probably shouldn’t. The brake light means that there is something wrong with your brakes, and it might be something dangerous. You should probably take care of it as soon as possible.
How Can I Check If the Parking Brake is Fully Released?
Make sure the parking brake handle or pedal is fully disengaged. Sometimes, the mechanism sticks a little. Give it a pump to fully disengage and watch if the light goes out.
What Should I Do If the Brake Fluid Level is Low?
If the level is low, add the correct type for your vehicle. Check for any leaks from the system. Repeated low levels can be caused by a leak or pads that are worn out.
When Should I Consult a Mechanic About the Parking Brake Light?
I suppose you’ve inspected the parking brake and brake fluid levels and looked for worn pads or obvious other problems, but it’s still flashing or on. In that case, it can be beyond your home mechanic’s ability. You’ll need a real mechanic to diagnose something like a switch or wiring problem. Don’t take a risk. Get your car looked at by a professional so its brakes are working safely and reliably.
Conclusion
The indicator that the parking brake is applied can warn about something more serious, including the fact that the handbrake might not be clearly applied, that the brake fluid level is too low, or that the brake pads are worn.
In any case, it is necessary to pay attention to the warning and take appropriate action to ensure the safety and proper operation of the car.
Regular inspections and timely corrections can prevent the instability of the braking system. If you cannot diagnose or fix the problem, a mechanic can help you drive safely.