Brake system warning light
The parking brake is on, or the brake fluid is low, or the brake system has a fault.
Stop soon Color: Red
Is it safe to drive?
No. Stop as soon as it is safe and check the car before you drive on.
Also called: BRAKE light, (!) in a circle.
What to do
- Check that the parking brake is fully released.
- If the light stays on, check the brake fluid level (the reservoir is usually on the driver side of the engine bay).
- Low brake fluid often means worn pads or a leak. Do not just top up and forget it.
- If the pedal feels soft or goes far down, do not drive: have the car towed.
Symbols and their meaning can differ a little by make and model. Your owner's manual is the final word for your car.
Trouble codes often stored with this light
A scanner can read these codes. Each one points to a different cause:
Questions about the brake system warning light
What does the brake system warning light mean?
The parking brake is on, or the brake fluid is low, or the brake system has a fault.
Is it safe to drive with the brake system warning light on?
No. Stop as soon as it is safe and check the car before you drive on.
Does the brake system warning light look the same in every car?
Most makers use a similar symbol, but the drawing and the color can differ a little. Your owner's manual shows the exact symbol for your car.