What to Do when Your Dashboard Brake Warning Light Comes On in Your Car

For most of us, the car brake warning light flashing on the dashboard simply means the obvious: we forgot to disengage the hand or parking brake. But that car dashboard brake light can mean something far more serious so do not ignore it if it stays lit after you release the hand brake. Always consult your dashboard lights again even if you think you've solved the problem that caused a light to display.

The first place to check for information is your vehicle owner manual. A special section in it usually details exactly what warning lights may display and the typical causes for their appearance.

When the dashboard brake warning light stays on even after you release the hand brake, the problem can still be minor. For example, there may be a problem with the hand brake itself or even a fuse that communicates between the brake and your car's electrical system.

But the car brake warning light can also signal an important problem that can relate to the safe operation of your car, truck, or SUV. Ignore it, and you bring greater trouble upon yourself in the form of an unsafe motor vehicle.

One cause for a brake warning light showing is low brake fluid. If it's been awhile since you checked your brake fluid or you never have, then consult your owner manual again to learn where the brake fluid reservoir is located beneath your car hood. Indicators on the reservoir itself or a dipstick may let you check the fluid level quickly and with little mess. If you need to add brake fluid, check your manual again to be sure you get the correct type for your car, and then add the right amount to bring your level back to full (but not overfull).

If, however, you add brake fluid and notice that the brake warning light comes on again in a few days or a week, check the fluid level again. If the level is once again low, you probably have a leak somewhere. Get your vehicle to a trusted mechanic or garage immediately since low brake fluid level can cause your brakes to fail. This can happen quickly so do not wait.