Top Reasons Why Your Brake Light is On: What You Need to Know

Most times, when light pops up on the dashboard, it usually passes a message about the state of your vehicle, with some requiring immediate attention. The brake light coming on usually communicates that something is wrong with the brake, an essential part of vehicle functioning and safety. However, brake lights coming on doesn't mean the brakes have failed completely. It can be due to several reasons. Therefore, it is best to immediately stop and investigate why your brake light is on before hitting the road. If you are in Los Angeles, CA, or anywhere near, you can consult with the Subaru-certified mechanics at Subaru Sherman Oaks for professional diagnostics, replacement, and repair. 

Here are 5 top reasons why your brake light is on. 

1. Parking Brake is Engaged 

One of the first things you need to check when your brake light comes on is the parking brake. While your transmission will be glad if you use your parking brake when your car is parked, it can be a problem when you are driving. Driving with your parking brake might cause many problems for your vehicle, including overheating the brakes, quick wear out of the brake pads, and compromising brake fluids. However, the solution is simple. All you need to do is disengage the parking brake, and the light will go off. 

2. Low Brake Fluid 

Brake fluids are essential to the brake set-up that ensures smooth functioning. Vehicles have sensors that lie within the brake master cylinder. This sensor helps to tell when the brake fluid is low or falls below a certain level and activates the brake light to let you know the vehicle brake needs attention. 

3. Malfunctioning ABS

Troubles within the ABS system can trigger the brake light on the dashboard to come on, regardless of whether your vehicle has an ABS light or not. Once you are able to confirm that your parking brake isn't engaged and the brake fluid is at a required level, you might need to check in at a service center or schedule a service to inspect the ABS system. 

4. Sensor or other Electrical Issues 

Various sensors that work around the brake, like the ones located in the brake master cylinder or the parking brake, might fail or malfunction. This malfunction can trigger the brake light to come on even when nothing is wrong with the brake system. You might need a certified brake mechanic to help you identify and fix this issue or replace the sensors if necessary. 

5. Worn Out Brake Pads 

Brake pads can wear out over time, and some vehicles have a sensor that lets you know the brake pad is too thin and is due for a change. Consider checking in with certified mechanics to check and replace your brake pads. 

Hit the Road with Maximum Confidence when You Engage Subaru Sherman Oaks Service

Ensuring Subaru-certified maintenance for your vehicle brakes will save you from more damage stress and lower your costs. Are you looking to find a Subaru Service Near Me? You can schedule service maintenance for your Subaru brakes at the Subaru Sherman Oaks service center in Los Angeles, CA. Also, if you are looking for an in stock Subaru model for Sale near me, you will find a quality lineup at Subaru Sherman Oaks.