Brake lights indicator on while driving

[saro29]

I just noticed this issue. While accelerating after leaving a traffic stop, I noticed the brake lights indicator stay on momentarily for few minutes and goes away. Anything to worry?

[Qslim]

Originally Posted by saro29

I just noticed this issue. While accelerating after leaving a traffic stop, I noticed the brake lights indicator stay on momentarily for few minutes and goes away. Anything to worry?

There is a switch in the master cylinder that detects low brake fluid and turns on the red 'brake' warning lamp. Check the fluid level.

[camryvibe]

Originally Posted by Qslim

There is a switch in the master cylinder that detects low brake fluid and turns on the red 'brake' warning lamp. Check the fluid level.

Agreed that the fluid level is probably low. I'd also note that the fluid level drops as the brake pads get worn down, so it might be a good idea to check the pad thickness if that hasn't been down for awhile.

[saro29]

Thank you! I found that Brake fluid level is inches above the minimum fluid level. I checked wih the Dealer. They are charging $110 for replacing the brake fluid. Is it worth to do that? What are the implications.

[Qslim]

Originally Posted by saro29

Thank you! I found that Brake fluid level is inches above the minimum fluid level. I checked wih the Dealer. They are charging $110 for replacing the brake fluid. Is it worth to do that? What are the implications.

Alright, although replacing the brake fluid is a good thing to do as a preventative measure, it's not necessary in this case. Brake fluid will go low for two reasons: it is water-based so it evaporates, and it will drop as the pads wear and the caliper pistons extend farther out of their bore. So, when the light on your dash comes on and you find the brake fluid level low, you should check to make sure your pads are still within limits, and if so, buy a bottle of fluid at the parts store and top the level off.

As far as changing the fluid and having the system flushed as the dealer is quoting, it is a good thing to do (some people say annually, some say two years, some say when the fluid starts to discolor) to prevent corrosion inside the brake system. Brake fluid is designed to absorb moisture to prevent water from collecting inside the lines, but it can only absorb so much, and over time if left you can have issues with corrosion inside the brake lines.

[saro29]

Very Informative post Qslim!
Today I stopped at the dealer as part of regular Oil Change. He mentioned the same. It is that Rear Brakes need to be adjusted, though pads looks new (I bought this used car about a year ago) He advised there is no need to fill brake fluid, Adjusting the brakes will fix the problem. I scheduled appt for next weekend. Will post my findings.