Brake system warning light

The parking brake is applied, the brake fluid level is low, or the brake system has a fault (on many cars this also includes electronic brake-force distribution).

ColourRed
UrgencyCritical

Can I keep driving? Stop driving as soon as it is safe. Continuing can cause severe engine or transmission damage.

What to do

  1. Check that the parking brake is fully released.
  2. If the light stays on, check the brake fluid level.
  3. If the pedal feels soft or travels further than normal, stop driving and have the car recovered.

Symbols and colours vary between manufacturers. Your owner's manual shows the exact symbols used in your car. In general, red means stop or act now, amber/yellow means check soon, and green/blue lights are information only.

Other warning lights