What causes the car to fail to start when the brake light is on?
2 Answers
The reasons for the constant illumination of the brake indicator light: 1. Handbrake not released: If the handbrake is not released or not fully released, it will cause the brake indicator light to stay on, reminding the driver to release the handbrake before starting. 2. Insufficient brake fluid: Low brake fluid levels can affect the car's braking performance and driving safety. 3. Leakage in the brake master cylinder or brake oil pipe: If brake fluid has been recently topped up but the car still shows insufficient brake fluid, check for leaks in the brake master cylinder and oil pipes. 4. Air in the brake system: If you feel weak braking or insufficient braking force when stepping on the brake, it indicates there is air in the brake system. In this case, check the vacuum booster pump for any air leaks.
I often encountered situations where the car wouldn't start when pressing the brake pedal, especially in older automatic transmission vehicles. This might be related to the brake start switch – if it detects that the pedal isn't fully pressed or the switch is faulty, the computer prevents the engine from starting, which feels like a safety lock mechanism. Other common causes include a dead battery or loose wiring. If the dashboard is completely dark, it's likely a battery failure. It could also be a seized starter or carbon buildup blocking the fuel intake system. My suggestion is to perform simple checks first: have someone press the brake pedal to see if the lights come on, and if not, check the fuses; then try charging or replacing the battery. Long-term neglect can lead to more faults, so timely attention can make the car more durable.
