What to Do When the Brake System Warning Light Comes On?

[LaFrank]

The solutions for when the brake system warning light comes on are: 1. Check if the handbrake is fully released; 2. Replace the brake fluid; 3. Replace the brake pads. The functions of the brake system are: 1. To ensure the vehicle slows down or stops as required by the driver; 2. To ensure the vehicle is parked securely; 3. To guarantee the safety of the vehicle and the driver. The components of the brake system include: 1. The energy supply device: Various parts that supply, regulate the energy required for braking, and improve the state of the transmission medium; 2. The control device: Parts that generate braking action and control braking effects; 3. The transmission device: Components that transmit braking energy to the brakes, such as the master cylinder and wheel cylinders; 4. The brake: Parts that generate resistance to the movement or tendency of movement of the vehicle.

[LaHaley]

Last time I was driving, the brake warning light suddenly came on, which scared me so much that I immediately pulled over. This light coming on is definitely not a trivial matter—the braking system is a matter of life and death! First, try stepping on the brake to see if it feels softer or heavier, and quickly turn on the hazard lights. If you can stop, immediately turn off the engine and check the brake fluid level. Look for the translucent small reservoir in the engine compartment—if the fluid level is below the MIN line, it’s dangerous. If you don’t know how to check it yourself, calling a tow truck is the safer option. Once, I had a brake fluid leak, and the repair shop said it was due to aging seals in the wheel cylinder. It cost a few hundred bucks to replace, but it gave me peace of mind. Never take chances and continue driving—there was a news story about a driver who forced their way and ended up rear-ending another car.

[LuciaFitz]

The experienced mechanic told me that there are three scenarios when the brake light comes on. The most urgent one is when the brake pedal feels spongy when pressed, which could indicate a leaking brake line or a faulty master cylinder. In this case, you must stop the vehicle immediately and call for assistance. If the pedal feels normal but the light remains on, it's likely a sensor false alarm, and restarting the engine might turn it off. Another scenario is when all warning lights come on at startup, and after a few seconds, only the brake light stays on. In this case, you'll need to use a diagnostic tool to read the fault codes. Remember not to stomp on the brakes to test them, as it could be dangerous if they fail. During maintenance, pay attention to the thickness of the brake pads. I check the depth of the brake disc grooves every 5,000 kilometers.

[Cupid]

Taking kids out is the last thing you want to encounter this situation. As soon as the brake warning light came on, I immediately eased off the throttle and coasted to the roadside. First, I felt the dashboard for any abnormal heat, then called my husband to ask about nearby repair shops. Last time the light came on was because the brake pads were worn down to the limit, and the mechanic showed me where the sensor wire was when replacing them. Now I can check it myself: start the engine while pressing the brake, engage the handbrake and shift to neutral, then observe if all warning lights go off. It's advisable to always keep half a liter of DOT4 brake fluid in the trunk for emergencies, but beginners should never unscrew the fluid reservoir cap themselves.