Brake warning light
Also called: BRAKE light, exclamation point in a circle
The parking brake is on, brake fluid is low, or the brake system has a fault.
What it means
The red brake light has a few meanings. Most often the parking brake is still set. If the parking brake is fully off, it usually means the brake fluid is low or the brake system detected a problem. Low fluid often means worn pads or a leak.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
The parking brake was still partly on. Release it fully and the light goes out.
Schedule a repair
The light stays on with the parking brake off but the pedal feels normal. Check the brake fluid level and book a visit soon. Pads may be worn or fluid may be leaking.
Stop and get help
The pedal feels soft or sinks, the car pulls, or you see fluid near a wheel. Don't drive it. Brakes are not something to gamble on.
Common causes
- Parking brake still engaged
- Low brake fluid from worn pads
- Brake fluid leak
- Faulty fluid level sensor
- ABS or brake system fault (often with the ABS light)
What to do right now
- Make sure the parking brake is fully released
- Check the brake fluid reservoir level
- If the pedal feels different at all, stop driving and call for help
Related guides
Symbols and meanings vary a little by make and model. Your owner's manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Other warning lights
Questions
What does the brake warning light mean?
The parking brake is on, brake fluid is low, or the brake system has a fault. The red brake light has a few meanings. Most often the parking brake is still set. If the parking brake is fully off, it usually means the brake fluid is low or the brake system detected a problem. Low fluid often means worn pads or a leak.
Can I keep driving with the brake warning light on?
Green: The parking brake was still partly on. Release it fully and the light goes out. Yellow: The light stays on with the parking brake off but the pedal feels normal. Check the brake fluid level and book a visit soon. Pads may be worn or fluid may be leaking. Red: The pedal feels soft or sinks, the car pulls, or you see fluid near a wheel. Don't drive it. Brakes are not something to gamble on.
What causes the brake warning light?
Common causes: parking brake still engaged; low brake fluid from worn pads; brake fluid leak; faulty fluid level sensor.
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