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The brake warning light can mean three different things: parking brake engaged, low brake fluid level or worn pads. If it stays on while driving with the handbrake released, have it checked immediately: it is a safety matter.

How to tell them apart

• Circle with an exclamation mark (red): brake fluid level or handbrake engaged
• Dashed circle (yellow): pad wear reported by the sensor
• Brake light + ABS together: possible problem in the circuit or the control unit

Most common causes

• Pads worn to the limit (the fluid drops because the pistons extend further)
• Leak in the hydraulic circuit: long or spongy pedal
• Pad wear sensor or broken wiring
• Electric parking brake fault
• Faulty level sensor in the fluid reservoir

What to do right away

• Check that the handbrake is fully released
• Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir
• If the pedal is long or spongy, do not carry on: possible leak in the circuit
• Have the pad thickness measured and the discs checked

How MasterTuning helps

We read the ECU with professional tools, interpret the real fault codes and tell you what really needs repairing, without unnecessary replacements. Diagnosis, repair and software recalibration at our centres throughout Italy.

Read more: vehicle database · find an installer · what is ECU remapping

Is a warning light on? Contact us for a diagnosis or find your nearest MasterTuning centre.

Frequently asked questions

Brake light on: can I drive?

If it is due to the fluid level or a spongy pedal, no, it is dangerous. If it is the pad wear warning you can reach the workshop carefully.

Why does the brake fluid drop on its own?

A gradual drop is normal as the pads wear. A rapid drop indicates a leak in the circuit, to be checked immediately.

How often should brake fluid be changed?

Generally every 2 years: it absorbs moisture and loses effectiveness, lengthening the braking distance when the brakes are hot.