What Does the Dashboard Display When There's No Brake Fluid?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission vehicles will display a brake warning light when there's no brake fluid. In automatic cars, the dashboard will show a circle with an exclamation mark in the middle when brake fluid is depleted, similar to the parking brake light. This warning light remains illuminated even after releasing the parking brake. Here are relevant details: Brake warning light activation: This indicates the need to replenish brake fluid and also suggests that the brake pads have reached their lifespan and require immediate replacement. Important notes: If the warning light doesn't activate, you can test the brake pedal feel. If the pedal feels softer than usual, this also indicates potential brake system issues. Brake pads typically last about 80,000 kilometers, though this mileage may vary depending on individual driving habits.
I've been repairing cars for half my life and have seen many cases of low brake fluid. A red light will illuminate on the dashboard, usually with an exclamation mark or a brake disc symbol—that's the brake warning light, indicating insufficient hydraulic pressure. Once this light comes on, you should stop driving immediately because the brakes may fail, and the consequences of a collision could be severe. There are various reasons for this, such as oil leaks in the pipelines, aging seals, or evaporation of the fluid. It's recommended to first open the hood and check the fluid level in the reservoir. If it's below the minimum mark, add dedicated DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid to the correct level. However, even after topping it up, you should promptly visit a professional repair shop to check for leaks, as problems may still occur otherwise. Don't forget regular maintenance—changing the fluid every 20,000 kilometers can help prevent failures.
