Brake Warning Light
The brake warning light on a Dodge Charger indicates an issue with the vehicle’s brake system. Specifically, the brake warning light will illuminate if:
The parking brake is engaged. This is a normal function of the light to alert the driver that the parking brake is on.
The brake fluid level is low. Brake fluid helps transfer pressure from the brake pedal to the brake calipers and wheels. A low fluid level means reduced braking ability.
There is a problem detected with the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). The ABS helps maintain braking control in emergency stopping situations. An issue with ABS could compromise braking performance.
There is excessive brake pad wear. The brake pads are a consumable part that wears down over time with use of the brakes. Low brake pad thickness can trigger the light.
There is a leak in the brake hydraulic system. Fluid leaks can cause low brake fluid levels or pressure issues that prevent proper braking.
If the brake warning light illuminates, it is important not to ignore it as it indicates a potential issue with the ability of the brakes to stop the vehicle safely. The driver should have a mechanic diagnose and address the problem as soon as possible.
Contents
- Will low brake fluid cause brake light to come on?
- Can I drive with brake system warning light?
- What does a yellow brake warning light mean?
- What would cause your brake system warning light to come on?
- How do you know if your brake fluid is low?
- Can I just add brake fluid if it’s low?
- Can I drive with brake pad warning light on?
- What is the brake light warning symbol?
- How long do I have after brake pad warning light?
- Why is my brake light on but brakes work fine?
Will low brake fluid cause brake light to come on?
One of the most common causes of a brake light coming on is low brake fluid. This could indicate that there is a leak in the brake system, or the brake fluid is simply low due to normal wear and tear. If your car’s brake pads are worn, it can cause the brake light to come on.
Can I drive with brake system warning light?
While you technically can drive with the brake system warning light on, you should make a point to remedy the situation as quickly as possible. Brakes are the most important safety feature on your vehicle, so you should not drive if your brakes are not working properly.
What does a yellow brake warning light mean?
Your braking system is not working the way it should, making it too dangerous to get on the road. If it’s yellow, you should check your brake fluid and get the vehicle diagnosed if you suspect a leak. You have to be able to stop your car, for your safety and the safety of other drivers.
What would cause your brake system warning light to come on?
If your brake service warning light is always on, it could be due to a need for parking brake adjustment, worn brake pads, or hydraulic issues. If your brake service warning light turns on when you hit the pedal, it could be due to hydraulic loss on one side of your vehicle or low brake fluid in the master cylinder.
How do you know if your brake fluid is low?
What Are the Symptoms of Low Brake Fluid?
- Brake warning light illuminated on your dash.
- Brake fluid appears low, discolored, or dirty.
- Brake pedal feels spongy or mushy.
- Vehicle has a longer stopping time than usual.
Can I just add brake fluid if it’s low?
If the fluid is below the minimum marking on the side of the reservoir or if it’s discolored, you’ll need to refill it. Wipe any debris off the cap with a rag before removing it. Then, pour the fluid into the reservoir until it’s about 3/4 full and replace the cap.
Can I drive with brake pad warning light on?
It will usually be safe to drive with the brake pad warning light on for a short period of time. This light will usually be programmed to come on when you still have some brake pad material left. However, you should get the problem looked at by a professional as soon as possible.
What is the brake light warning symbol?
The brake system warning light can indicate one of two things: the parking brake is engaged, or brake fluid level is low. In either scenario, the light is turned on by a switch somewhere in the brake system. When you engage the parking brake, the brake handle closes a switch that turns on the warning light.
How long do I have after brake pad warning light?
about 1000 miles
Although there are a number of variables that affect how long brake pads remain once the warning light illuminates, an approximate estimate of about 1000 miles (1600 km) of driving where effective braking will be maintained.
Why is my brake light on but brakes work fine?
Why is the brake light on while driving? When your brake light comes on, your car is letting you know that either your vehicle is low on brake fluid, the emergency brake is activated, there’s trouble within the ABS unit, or there’s a problem with the sensors.