What Causes the Brake System Fault Indicator Light to Illuminate?
2 Answers
The reasons for the brake system fault indicator light illuminating: 1. ABS function failure; 2. Severe brake pad wear leading to failure; 3. Brake fluid not meeting requirements. Abnormalities in the brake system manifest as poor braking or failure, unilateral braking deviation, braking noise, brake drum overheating caused by brake drag, and parking brake failure. The brake system mainly consists of four parts: the energy supply device, control device, transmission device, and brake. Its primary functions are: 1. To decelerate or even stop a moving vehicle; 2. To maintain a stable speed for a vehicle moving downhill; 3. To keep a stationary vehicle from moving.
I've seen plenty of brake warning light issues during my years as a mechanic. The most common cause is low brake fluid level, either due to reservoir leakage or evaporation from prolonged use. Next is excessively worn brake pads – those with wear sensors will trigger an alert. ABS system malfunctions also activate the light, like when wheel speed sensors get clogged with mud or wiring comes loose. An improperly released parking brake can illuminate it too. For electronic system failures, the control module might be burnt out. I advise drivers to first check the fluid reservoir level themselves. If that's normal, visit a professional shop to read trouble codes with a diagnostic tool rather than tampering blindly and risking further damage. Safety comes first – when that light's on, braking performance may be compromised. Emergency stops at highway speeds could lead to loss of control. The safest approach is to pull over and arrange for tow truck service to a repair facility.
