What are the reasons for the car brake system warning light to illuminate?
2 Answers
Car brake system warning light illuminates due to: 1. Insufficient brake fluid; 2. Excessive wear of brake pads; 3. Parking switch not fully released. The brake system is a device that can forcibly reduce the vehicle's speed. It mainly consists of an energy supply device, control device, transmission device, and brake. The primary functions of this system are to decelerate or even stop a moving vehicle and to maintain a stable speed for vehicles going downhill. Brake systems are categorized by function into: service brake system, parking brake system, and auxiliary brake system. The service brake system is operated by the driver's foot, hence also known as the foot brake system. Its function is to decelerate a moving vehicle or bring it to a stop within a short distance. The parking brake system is operated by the driver's hand, hence also known as the hand brake system. Its function is to keep a vehicle that has stopped on various road surfaces stationary.
I've been driving for over ten years and have encountered the brake warning light coming on several times, which always makes me nervous. The most common reason is that the brake fluid level is too low, either due to a leak in the reservoir or not topping it up in time, causing the system to detect insufficient pressure and trigger the warning light. Additionally, severely worn brake pads can also cause the light to come on, especially the rear pads which are often overlooked. Another possibility is a faulty ABS sensor or damaged wiring. Safety first—when the light comes on, I immediately pull over to check if the fluid level is between the min-max lines. If you're a beginner, don't try to fix it yourself; call a tow truck and take it to a repair shop. Never force your way through, as brake failure can be extremely dangerous. Now, I've developed a habit of checking my brake system every three months to avoid major issues. Remember, timely repairs can save you money and ensure safety.