brake light on 1998 Camry

[twocamrys]

The red brake light on my dash comes on periodically. The light usually only illuminates when the brakes are applied. It happens more frequently when it is really cold outside. I checked the brake fluid and it appears fine. Does anyone have any suggestions on what could be causing this? Since the light doesn't come on every time the car is driven, I am stumped.

[LynchburgCSI]

Low brakes pads is a possibility.

[fenixus]

check fluid level, sometimes when brake fluid is low in the reservoir it may cause the light to come up occasionally. however reason for low brake fluid (besides leaks) would point to very low life left on all pads (as mentioned above).

[Mike Gerber]

"I checked the brake fluid and it appears fine."

Did you actually remove the cap on the master cylinder reservoir or did you just look through the translucent side? Many times old and dirty fluid will stain the sides of the reservoir making it look full when it is actually low.

Mike

[Zembonez]

I agree. This usually happens when the fluid level is borderline low. Adding a bit of fresh fluid may well solve the problem.

[Sturdavj]

I had a similar problem on my 86’ Corolla. I TS it and found the switch on the E-brake needed to be adjusted. I did so and problem has not returned.

[gyjoe]

I've experienced the same thing in several well maintained vehicles in extremely cold weather. It has always gone away once the cold snap is over.