Brake System Warning Light
GarageDex's warning light guide shows the brake system warning light means the parking brake is engaged, or the brake fluid is low or the hydraulic brake system has a fault. Release the parking brake fully first. If the light stays on after that, do not keep driving: low brake fluid can mean a leak, and braking can fail.
Stop driving as soon as it is safe
Looks like: An exclamation mark inside a circle with curved brackets, or the word BRAKE.
What to do
- Make sure the parking brake is fully released.
- If the light stays on, stop somewhere safe and check the brake fluid reservoir.
- If the fluid is low, do not simply top it up and carry on. Find out why it dropped.
- If the brake pedal feels soft or sinks, have the car towed.
Common causes
- Parking brake not fully released
- Low brake fluid
- Very worn brake pads, which lower the fluid level as they wear
- A brake fluid leak
- A faulty fluid level sensor or parking brake switch
How to turn it off
It turns off when the parking brake is released or the fluid is restored and the fault repaired.
For your exact carFind your brake pad sizeLook it upFrequently asked
What does the brake system warning light mean?
GarageDex's warning light guide shows the brake system warning light means the parking brake is engaged, or the brake fluid is low or the hydraulic brake system has a fault. Release the parking brake fully first. If the light stays on after that, do not keep driving: low brake fluid can mean a leak, and braking can fail.
Can I drive with the brake system warning light on?
Release the parking brake fully first. If the light stays on after that, do not keep driving: low brake fluid can mean a leak, and braking can fail.
What causes the brake system warning light?
The common causes: Parking brake not fully released; Low brake fluid; Very worn brake pads, which lower the fluid level as they wear; A brake fluid leak; A faulty fluid level sensor or parking brake switch.
How do I turn off the brake system warning light?
It turns off when the parking brake is released or the fluid is restored and the fault repaired.
Related guides
Other warning lights
General guidance for mainstream vehicles - your owner's manual is the authority for your car. Reviewed by the GarageDex editorial team.