Can I drive if the handbrake light is still on after releasing it?
2 Answers
No. If the handbrake light on the dashboard remains illuminated after releasing the handbrake, it indicates a malfunction in the braking system. Braking system malfunction: If the light stays on, common causes may include insufficient brake fluid or excessively worn brake pads. It is recommended to first check whether the brake fluid level is adequate. If the brake fluid is low, simply top it up. Excessively worn brake pads can also cause this issue, and you should visit a professional repair shop to have them replaced. Handbrake switch malfunction: If there are no issues with the braking system, the problem may lie with the handbrake switch. It is advisable to visit a professional 4S dealership for repairs, as vehicle braking systems are critical safety components.
I ran into this issue just the other day when I was about to pick up my kids from school. I noticed the parking brake light stayed on even though I had definitely released the handbrake, which really had me worried. After checking some information, I realized this might not be a minor issue—it could be a sensor malfunction or the handbrake mechanism not fully disengaging. Driving like this could wear out the brake pads, overheat the tires, or even cause a blowout. What's even scarier is that if the brakes fail while driving, the consequences could be disastrous. I tried pulling and releasing the handbrake a few times, but the light still wouldn't turn off, so I had to call a tow truck to take it to the repair shop. The mechanic said it was just a small switch that was broken, and it cost a little over 100 yuan to fix. My advice if you encounter a similar situation: don't drive the car right away. Do a quick check to see if the brake discs are warm; if that doesn't help, get a professional to fix it—safety is more important than anything else.
