Brake light won't go off

[ottogaus]

I just changed the front pads on my beloved 98 Avalon. Everything went fine except now the red BRAKE light won't go off. I checked the brake fluid and it is near max level. Also no problem with parking brake. When I disconnect the connector for the brake fluid level switch on the outside of the reservoir, the light goes off. As soon I connect it again, the light goes back on. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[96paseo]

Hi and welcome to TN. First thing to do is make sure the brake fluid is filled to the max line. Second, there is a float in the reservoir that operates the switch. Clean the outside of the reservoir if its dirty. Look and see if the float is level with the brake fluid level. If its stuck, replace the float and switch.

[ottogaus]

Thanks 96paseo. Appreciate your response. This model does not have a float but rather a sensor near the bottom of the reservoir. The brake fluid is filled to the max line. Must be a sensor problem? Any other thoughts??

[96paseo]

Pull the connector off the sensor and check for any dirt or corrosion. If some brake fluid was spilled on it, clean it off and clean the terminals with some rubbing alcohol and a q-tip. Hope this helps.

[ottogaus]

Thanks again 96paseo. Another thread suggested that the reservoir/sensor be tapped. I did this, gently with a small hammer, and whaddyaknow - the sensor apparently came back to life because the brake light went off. Back in business!