Virtual Mechanic

PURPOSE
A brake warning lamp may be a handbrake light, a master cylinder level indicator or a master cylinder losing excessive fluid which enables the switch to be activated.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR
The most serious light indicator is a brake light staying on because the system is leaking excessive fluid.  The first step is to check the fluid reservoir.  If it’s exactly at the full mark while you have the cap off, push the level indicator down to see if the light goes out.  Also check the hand brake lever to see if the light fades or goes out if you manipulate the on and off on the handbrake.  If either works, disconnect the connection to the master cylinder.  If the light goes out have your mechanic inspect it before you drive it anywhere as the light connected to the master cylinder, the warning brake light, is a brake fluid loss indicator.  This is a serious problem.

IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
Costs may vary, depending on the source of the problem.

TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
Disconnecting the warning lamp to prevent the light from coming on is not the way to go as it’s designed to prevent the brakes from failing.

This article is found in the Virtual mechanic CD Rom
You can download it for the price of a latte, but you will learn not to buy a lemon
By Darren Gow-Brown, Melbourne Australia ©2009