Understanding Your Car
Brake System Warning light.
Brakes are the most important component of your car when it comes to safety. They are responsible for controlling your car, regulating its speed, and ultimately stopping it when needed. The handbrake helps to maintain the car in a stationary position when in parking mode.
The specific dashboard warning lights may vary depending on the model and make of your car.
Here are some of the reasons why your Brake System warning light may come on;
If you notice a 'brake' or an encircled exclamation mark light on your dashboard, it could mean your
brake fluid is running out.
You should pull over to the roadside and check your brake fluid reservoir to confirm the
level.
Running on an empty brake fluid reservoir is very risky. A significant drop in the brake fluid level could be due to a leakage in the braking system or not properly
filling up your brake fluid reservoir.
The Parking or Handbrake light is represented by an encircled 'P' or an exclamation mark on your dashboard, and it simply indicates that your car is in parking mode. If the light persists, even when the handbrake is off, your car may be experiencing a wiring problem or memory error.
The rear brake linings serve as your handbrake. Worn-out brake linings can make it difficult for your car
to remain stationary while in parking mode and may also cause it not to engage immediately in case of an
emergency.
Driving with the Handbrake engaged will wear out your brake linings.
To switch off the Parking light on your dashboard, you can either release your car's handbrake or have it checked by an expert, particularly a Diagnostic professional.
An encircled ABS Warning icon on your dashboard simply means that there is a problem with your Anti-lock Braking System. The ABS prevents locking of your wheels in case of emergency braking, on a slippery ground, or during the rains.
The ABS prevents skidding, thus helping you maintain control of your car. Each time you start your car, the ABS Warning icon briefly appears on your dashboard as it performs a diagnostic self-check.
If you notice the ABS Warning is persistent, troubleshooting your vehicle's error memory using a diagnostic scanner will help you sort the problem.
A circle enclosed in dotted brackets is an indication of worn-out or dropped brake pads. This is likely to alter your braking power. The wearing out of brake pads is normal depending on the movements of your car. The brake pads of vehicles with numerous trips are likely not to last long as compared to a car used for short trips.
You should get your brake pads checked before proceeding further. Worn-out brake pads should be replaced with news ones matching the manufacturer's specifications.
Your car dashboard will show a Brake Pedal light during ignition or when trying to engage the gears. This simply means you should depress the brake pedal.
Remember
Overall, it's important to promptly address any brake warning lights and have your brake system inspected by a professional to ensure your safety on the road.