Can You Still Drive When the Brake System Warning Light Is On?

[LaParker]

It is recommended not to drive. Below are the reasons related to the brake warning light: 1. Check the brake fluid level: The brake fluid reservoir is usually located on the right side of the engine compartment, marked with MAX (maximum) and MIN (minimum) indicators. If the level is below MIN, it is necessary to visit a repair shop as soon as possible for inspection and refill. 2. Brake fluid leakage: Oil leakage from components such as the brake caliper or oil pipes can also cause the brake fluid level in the reservoir to drop too low, triggering the warning. In such cases, immediately inspect the source of the leakage and carry out repairs or replacements. Additionally, if the brake pads are contaminated with oil, they must be cleaned thoroughly or replaced directly. 3. Brake pad warning: When the brake pads wear down to their limit, the brake system warning will be triggered. The brake pad warning system involves inserting a warning wire into the brake pad. If the brake pad wears excessively, it will rub against the sensor wire, causing it to break or come into contact with the brake disc, altering the resistance. This change in resistance leads to a variation in current, ultimately triggering the warning.

[StAngela]

When I see the brake system warning light come on, my first reaction is absolutely not to keep driving! This light indicates an issue with the braking system, which could be low brake fluid, ABS malfunction, or sensor problems. Continuing to drive could mean delayed brake response or even complete failure – how terrifying is that? I once had a friend who stubbornly kept driving, and nearly rear-ended someone at a red light. My advice is to safely pull over immediately and check, focusing on whether the brake fluid reservoir level is between MIN and MAX. If the level is normal but the light persists, it's probably time to call a tow truck and head to a professional shop. Road safety isn't something to gamble with – driving with that light on is literally playing with your life.

[StBrody]

The brake light coming on is quite common but often overlooked, especially by novice drivers. I've encountered experienced drivers on the road complaining about it, thinking it's just a small light and not a big deal, only to find their brakes feeling soft after driving for a while and nearly causing an accident. This light could indicate that the brake pads are worn to their limit or that there's a fault with the electronic parking brake sensor. No matter how far you are from your destination, first find a safe area to pull over, firmly engage the parking brake, and then start the vehicle to repeatedly press the brake pedal and test the feel. If the pedal has to be pressed all the way down to be effective, it's likely a fluid leak issue, and continuing to drive in this condition is absolutely dangerous. Nowadays, smartphones make things convenient; you can stop, take a photo of the dashboard, and send it directly to your regular repair shop for advice, which can save a lot of trouble.

[DiAxel]

If the brake warning light is on, there must be a problem with the system. Slow down immediately and turn on the hazard lights, but avoid slamming on the brakes. Gradually drive to the nearest gas station or service area at an extremely low speed. After stopping, first check the color of the brake fluid reservoir—normally it should be light yellow. If it appears black and has bubbles, it means there's air in the lines. The technician mentioned during my last service that in such cases, the brake fluid can boil, and continuing to drive could double or even triple the braking distance! Modern cars have many electronic systems, so it might also be that the wheel speed sensor is clogged with mud—a simple cleaning might fix it. However, if the dashboard displays 'BRAKE' in red, you must call for roadside assistance immediately.